North Carolina linebacker Cedric Gray is among the top players returning for the Tar Heels after he had a breakout year in 2022. Gray has developed as a leader for the Tar Heels’ defense, being arguably their best player.
And now ahead of 2023, Gray is receiving some more recognition nationally.
On Thursday, Gray was one of 51 players named to the preseason watch list for the Butkus Award. The award is given out annually to the nation’s top linebacker.
Gray finished the 2022 season with 145 total tackles, a sack, 12 tackles for loss, two interceptions, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and six pass breakups. His play earned him first-team All-ACC honors, one of two Tar Heels to earn that.
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— Carolina Football (@UNCFootball) August 10, 2023
This list of 51 players will be trimmed down to semifinalists in October and then finalists in November. The winner will be announced on December 6th.
The award is named after the legendary Dick Butkus who played college football at Illinois and then had a Hall of Fame career with the Chicago Bears.
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