Oklahoma State University Athletics
Wesloski named to Butkus Award Watch List
August 13, 2026 | Cowboy Football
STILLWATER – Oklahoma State linebacker Ethan Wesloski is one of 51 linebackers on the watch list for the 2026 Butkus Award, announced Thursday by the Butkus Foundation.
He is one of 12 Big 12 players on the watch list for the honor, presented each year to the nation's top collegiate linebacker.
Wesloski, who transferred to Oklahoma State from North Texas in 2026, was an all-conference selection in 2025. Had a breakout season as a junior, leading the team with 113 tackles and playing in all 14 games.
He finished the year ranked second in the American Conference in total tackles and solo tackles and led American Conference linebackers in the overall defensive and coverage grades from Pro Football Focus.
Semifinalists for the 2026 Butkus Award will be announced October 28, finalists on November 20 and the winner will be revealed during the week of December 7. Selection is based on performance throughout the season, and appearance on the preseason watch list is not required for a player to win the award.
He is one of 12 Big 12 players on the watch list for the honor, presented each year to the nation's top collegiate linebacker.
Wesloski, who transferred to Oklahoma State from North Texas in 2026, was an all-conference selection in 2025. Had a breakout season as a junior, leading the team with 113 tackles and playing in all 14 games.
He finished the year ranked second in the American Conference in total tackles and solo tackles and led American Conference linebackers in the overall defensive and coverage grades from Pro Football Focus.
Semifinalists for the 2026 Butkus Award will be announced October 28, finalists on November 20 and the winner will be revealed during the week of December 7. Selection is based on performance throughout the season, and appearance on the preseason watch list is not required for a player to win the award.
Players Mentioned
LB
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Thursday, August 13
Wednesday, August 12
Wednesday, August 12
