The Lombardi Award Committee announced today that linebacker Sammy Brown, offensive lineman Blake Miller, defensive end T.J. Parker and defensive tackle Peter Woods have been named as four of 54 candidates on the watch list for the Lombardi Award, presented annually to the nation’s premier lineman or linebacker. Additional information from the award organizers is included below.
Visit the 2025 Preseason Honors hub for more preseason accolades garnered by Clemson.
HOUSTON (August 12, 2025) – The Lombardi Award™ Committee is thrilled to announce the 2025 Preseason Watchlist, highlighting 54 of the nation’s premier linemen and linebackers. This distinguished group represents the finest talent from all FBS conferences and independents, selected based on their past performances and potential for the upcoming season.
Celebrating its 52nd anniversary, the Lombardi Award™ has been presented in Houston, Texas, since its establishment in 1970. The 2025 award dinner is scheduled for December 10, 2025, with net proceeds from gala sponsorships and table sales dedicated to supporting cancer research.
The Lombardi Award™ was established in 1970 in memory of legendary coach Vince Lombardi. It is presented to outstanding linemen who best epitomize his values of leadership, courage, performance, and discipline on and off the field. Furthermore, the watchlist includes players who are consistently showing the values of strength, agility, and football acumen in their respective positions.
The 2025 watchlist reflects a diverse distribution across eligible positions: 10 defensive ends, 7 defensive tackles, and 12 linebackers on defense; and 11 offensive tackles, 6 offensive guards, 5 offensive centers, and 3 tight ends on offense. This talented cohort showcases strong representation from the nation’s top conferences, with 16 players from the SEC, 12 from the Big Ten, 5 from the Big 12, and 7 from the ACC, complemented by exceptional talent from the Mountain West, MAC, Conference USA, Sun Belt, and Independent Conferences.
As the 2025 season unfolds, this dynamic watchlist may evolve with the potential to add breakout performers at mid-season. These student-athletes not only compete for the Lombardi Award™ distinction on the gridiron but also inspire future generations, carrying forward the legacy of a coaching icon through their dedication, and perseverance on the gridiron.
2025 Lombardi Award Watch List
DT Payton Zdroik, Air Force
LB Deonte Lawson, Alabama
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