Oklahoma linebacker Danny Stutsman returned for his senior year with a purpose, and his efforts have not gone unnoticed. Just two days after
leading the Sooners to a stunning Senior Night upset over No. 7 Alabama, Stutsman was named one of five finalists for the prestigious Butkus
Award, given annually to college football’s top linebacker. The award, named after legendary linebacker Dick Butkus, holds a rich history at
Oklahoma. Brian Bosworth won the inaugural award in 1985 and repeated in 1986, remaining the only two-time winner. Rocky Calmus (2001)
and Teddy Lehman (2003) are also former Sooners who claimed the honor. Stutsman joins Clemson’s Barrett Carter, Ole Miss’ Chris Paul,
UCLA’s Carson Schwesinger, and Georgia’s Jalon Walker as finalists. Among them, only Schwesinger (109) has more total tackles this
season than Stutsman, who boasts 100 tackles in 2024—his third consecutive season reaching triple digits. Stutsman is currently ranked in the
top 15 nationally in tackles and ninth all-time in career tackles at Oklahoma. He also has 7.5 tackles for loss this season.
The Butkus Award winner will be announced on Dec. 10, with the official ceremony set for Feb. 1 at the University of Illinois, where Butkus rose to
fame before his Hall of Fame career with the Chicago Bears. The 51-person selection committee, comprising coaches, scouts, and
journalists, emphasizes qualities that defined Butkus’ career: toughness, leadership, competitiveness, character, and linebacking
excellence. The award increasingly focuses on recognizing linebackers who thrive in off-the-ball roles.
Stutsman and the Sooners will next face LSU in Baton Rouge as he continues to solidify his legacy at Oklahoma.