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Iowa’s Lutmer, ISU’s Terrell on Bednarick Watch List

University of Iowa defensive back Zach Lutmer and Iowa State defensive end Isaac Terrell have been named to the 2026 Chuck Bednarik Award Watch List on Friday, presented annually to the most outstanding defensive player in college football.

In addition to being a Bednarik Award candidate, Lutmer was previously named to the 2026 Bronko Nagurski Trophy and Lott IMPACT Trophy watch lists. The Rock Rapids native was also tabbed a 2026 preseason second-team All-American by The Sporting News.

Lutmer (6-foot-1, 203 pounds) started all 13 games at the CASH position in 2025, recording 71 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, one sack, three interceptions, one touchdown, and seven pass breakups. He earned second-team All-Big Ten honors from the league's coaches and a third-team selection from the media, while also being named Iowa's Roy Carver Most Valuable Player on defense.

Terrell, a senior transfer from Washington State, was the 2025 Pac-12 Conference's Top Defensive Line Performer. He compiled 28 tackles with team-highs of 12 tackles for loss and seven sacks. He also forced one fumble, batted down one pass and recorded six quarterback hurries and a safety as a junior.

Presented annually since 1994, the award is named for University of Pennsylvania linebacker Chuck Bednarik.

Semifinalists for the Bednarik Award will be announced Nov. 10, with the three finalists unveiled Nov. 24. The winner of the 32nd Bednarik Award will be announced on Dec. 10.