Texas A&M will kick off their crucial 2023 CFB season against New Mexico in just three weeks (and a few days). As we’ve seen throughout August, several Aggies have been recognized as premier members at their various position groups. As of Thursday morning, Texas A&M junior linebacker Edgerrin Cooper has officially been named to the Butkus Award preseason watchlist.
Announced by the Butkus Foundation located in Chicago (IL), the award annually recognizes the top linebacker in the country in Division 1, and after flashing signs of impressive play during his last two seasons, Cooper’s length, speed, instincts, and most importantly, his consistency in pass coverage has skyrocketed his value ahead of the Aggies pivotal 2023 campaign.
Cooper’s ascendence to the starting lineup began last season, where he recorded 61 tackles (33 solo), eight tackles for loss, and an interception on the year. In 2021, Cooper first made his mark on defense in a rotational role, amassing 58 tackles (37 solo) while earning SEC All-Freshman Team honors.
In a release from Texas A&M Athletics, the Butkus Award starts and ends with its founder: Hall Of Fame linebacker Dick Butkus, who stared for the Chicago Bears from 1965-1973.
The number of linebackers on the watch list, 51, is a nod to the storied “51” pro jersey worn by the award’s namesake, Dick Butkus, who was named by NFL Films as the greatest defensive player in football history. The Butkus Award recognizes the best linebackers in football. The award semifinalists are expected to be named Oct. 30 with finalists to follow Nov. 20. The winner will be named on or before Dec. 6. Appearing on the watch list is not a requirement to win the award.
Cooper is the latest Aggie to be added to a preseason watchlist for individual hardware, joining McKinnley Jackson, Nik Constantinou, Max Wright, Bryce Foster, Donovan Green, and Demani Richardson.
Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes, and opinions. Follow Cameron on Twitter: @CameronOhnysty.
[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=5]