Utah Utes linebackers Karene Reid and Lander Barton have been named to the 2024 Butkus Award Watch List, which ranks them among the best linebackers in college football. The Butkus Award, named after legendary linebacker Dick Butkus, honors the nation’s most influential linebacker. This prestigious award has been given annually since 1985. Reid and Barton are among seven Big 12 players on the list, which includes 51 players from across the country and was released on August 13.

Lander Barton, the 2022 Pac-12 Freshman Defensive Player of the Year, has made a significant impact in his first two seasons with the Utes. Entering his junior year, Barton has played in 21 games and started 10 of them. He has collected 80 tackles in his career, including 8.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. Barton, a graduate of Brighton High School, is expected to be a key defensive leader for the Utes this season.

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Karene Reid of American Fork, Utah, was also a standout for the Utes. In the 2023 season, Reid averaged 6.8 tackles per game in Pac-12 play and showed his versatility by contributing to the passing game with an interception and four pass breakups. Over the past two seasons, Reid has consistently been a playmaker on defense.

Semifinalists for the Butkus Award will be announced on November 4, with finalists following on November 25. The winner will be announced live on December 8 during the Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN.