Gideon Lampron, a fifth‑year linebacker for the Colorado Buffaloes, has been selected for the 2024 Chuck Bednarik Award watch list, marking his second appearance on a national defensive honor roster after earlier earning a spot on the Butkus Award watch list.
A milestone for the Buffaloes' defense
The Bednarik Award, presented annually to the most outstanding defensive player in college football, recognizes Lampron’s emergence as a playmaker on the Buffaloes’ front line. His 2023 season at Bowling Green saw him top the Group of Six in tackles and tackles for loss, amassing 119 stops, 17.5 for loss, 2.5 sacks and two forced fumbles while starting every game.
Colorado head coach Deion Sanders highlighted Lampron’s leadership and selflessness, describing him as a player who “loves football” and consistently puts the team’s success ahead of personal accolades.
Lampron joins a distinguished group of Buffaloes who have made the Bednarik watch list in recent years, joining Travis Hunter and BJ Green this season and following in the footsteps of Nate Landman, who earned the honor three times between 2019 and 2021.
The award’s timeline will see semifinalists announced on November 10, finalists revealed on November 24, and the ultimate winner crowned on December 10, adding a narrative arc that could extend Lampron’s already rising profile.