Notre Dame's Bowen and Viliamu-Asa named to Butkus Award Watch List
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 13, 2026, 4:27 PM
Last updated Aug 13, 2026
Notre Dame linebackers Drayk Bowen and Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa have been selected for the 2026 Butkus Award Watch List. This award honors the nation's top linebackers, continuing a tradition of recognition for Irish players, including past winners like Manti Te'o and Jaylon Smith. Bowen, a senior, led the team last season with 67 tackles, while Viliamu-Asa contributed 48 tackles in an injury-shortened season. Both players aim to uphold Notre Dame's strong linebacker legacy as the season approaches.
- •Bowen started all 12 games in 2025, led team with 67 tackles.
- •Viliamu-Asa played in 11 games, finished with 48 tackles.
- •Bowen was a High School Butkus Award winner.
- •Both players named to multiple preseason award watch lists.
- 4:27 PMYahoo Sports — Notre Dame LB’s Drayk Bowen, Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa Land on Butkus Award Watch List
"Notre Dame has two of the best linebackers in the nation, and they will both be in the spotlight for the Butkus Award.
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