Three LSU Defenders Named To Bednarik Award Preseason Watch List
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USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
LSU defensive end Princewill Umanmielen, linebacker Whit Weeks, and cornerback DJ Pickett have been named to the 2026 Chuck Bednarik Award Preseason Watch List.
The Bednarik Award, presented by the Maxwell Football Club, is given annually to the most outstanding defensive player in college football. The 2026 preseason list features 90 players from across the country.
Weeks returns as one of the leaders of LSU's defense after recording 205 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks over his first three seasons. Umanmielen transferred to LSU this offseason after a strong 2025 campaign at Ole Miss, where he recorded 13 tackles for loss and nine sacks.
Pickett enters his sophomore season after recording 37 tackles and a team-high three interceptions as a freshman. All three Tigers have also received preseason All-SEC recognition heading into Lane Kiffin's first season at LSU.
The Bednarik Award, presented by the Maxwell Football Club, is given annually to the most outstanding defensive player in college football. The 2026 preseason list features 90 players from across the country.
Weeks returns as one of the leaders of LSU's defense after recording 205 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks over his first three seasons. Umanmielen transferred to LSU this offseason after a strong 2025 campaign at Ole Miss, where he recorded 13 tackles for loss and nine sacks.
Pickett enters his sophomore season after recording 37 tackles and a team-high three interceptions as a freshman. All three Tigers have also received preseason All-SEC recognition heading into Lane Kiffin's first season at LSU.
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