The Butkus Award is awarded each year to the nation's most outstanding college linebacker.
Ownership controversy
Dick Butkus filed a lawsuit in the Spring of 2007 claiming that he no longer was allowing the Downtown Athletic Club of Orlando to use his name, picture, or likeness for the award. On April 8, 2008 a California judge ruled in favor of Butkus, forcing the club to discontinue the award. Butkus was allegedly unhappy over the club's lack of participation with charities in connection with the award. Butkus plans to revive the award on his own and bring it back to his hometown of Chicago.
Award history
Starting in 1985, the Downtown Athletic Club of Orlando has annually selected the top linebacker in college football for the award. There are 40 members of the selection committee that vote each year for the finalists and winner.
Butkus background
Dick Butkus played football at the University of Illinois, then played for the Chicago Bears in the NFL for nine seasons. He was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979. Many consider Butkus one of the best linebackers ever to play the game.
Fast Facts:
- Established in 1985
- In honor of Dick Butkus
- 2007 recipient: Ohio State junior, James Laurinaitis
- Runners up: Jordon Dizon and Dan Connor
The Butkus Award Blogs and Commentaries
Google Blog Search: The Butkus Award
- <p>Cleveland.com Blog: Ohio State's Laurinaitis wins Butkus Award -Post
Colorado Buffaloes: Dizon Finishes As A Runner-Up In Butkus Race
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