Multiple Texas, Georgia Players Join 2025 Bednarik Award Watch List

The 2025 Chuck Bednarik Award preseason watch list highlights a strong group of defensive players across several top college football programs. Texas Tech features three seniors—David Bailey, Lee Hunter, and Jacob Rodriguez—each recognized for their impactful defensive roles and national accolades, placing the team among seven nationwide with multiple candidates. Georgia similarly has four players—safety KJ Bolden, cornerback Daylen Everette, defensive lineman Christen Miller, and linebacker CJ Allen—named to the watch list, all of whom have also received preseason All-SEC honors and other award nominations. The Texas Longhorns showcase a formidable trio with linebacker Anthony Hill Jr., safety Michael Taaffe, and defensive lineman Colin Simmons, all of whom had standout 2024 seasons and are expected to continue their dominance. Texas A&M has two representatives, defensive backs Will Lee III and linebacker Taurean York, both recognized for their strong tackling stats and previous honors. These selections underscore the depth of defensive talent anticipated to shape the upcoming college football season.