A Historic Watchlist
The Lott IMPACT Trophy revealed its 42 candidates for the 2026 season on May 20, assembling a diverse pool of standout performers from across the nation. The watchlist is composed of 17 defensive backs, 16 defensive linemen and nine linebackers, reflecting the increasing emphasis on players who change the game with big plays.
Conference affiliation remains a strong indicator of representation, with the Big Ten topping the list at 16 honorees, followed by the SEC with 13 and the ACC with six. This distribution underscores the competitive depth of those conferences this year.
Among the honorees are two USC Trojans: junior defensive tackle Jide Abasiri and sophomore defensive tackle Jahkeem Stewart. Both players earned spots on the list after delivering impressive performances during the previous season.
Abasiri recorded 26 total tackles, 3.5 sacks and a forced fumble, numbers that highlight his disruptive presence on the line. Analysts point to his size, speed and motor as qualities that could make him a dominant force in the Big Ten, especially now that USC’s new television agreement with the conference will broadcast his games to a national audience.
Stewart, despite battling a stress fracture in his foot, still managed 18 tackles, 1.5 sacks and an interception, earning All‑America recognition from the Football Writers Association of America and a spot on Pro Football Focus’s freshman All‑America team. His physical maturity and accolades have positioned him as a potential breakout candidate, though history shows that no sophomore has ever captured the Lott IMPACT Trophy.
The combination of experience, statistical production and visibility creates a compelling narrative for both Trojans as they aim to bring the award back to Southern California. Their inclusion also reflects the broader trend of defensive players receiving increased attention in major accolade discussions.