FSU’s Thomas, Pugh Named to Butkus Award Watch List

A pair of Florida State seniors earned some preseason recognition on Monday morning.

Florida State’s Matthew Thomas and Jacob Pugh were each named to the Butkus Award watch list, which annually goes to the nation’s top linebacker. The award named after legendary linebacker Dick Butkus has been presented by the Butkus Foundation in every year since 1985.

Thomas led the Seminoles with 77 total tackles a season ago. That included 11 tackles for loss, a sack and a forced fumble. Thomas was previously named to the Bednarik Award watch list.

Pugh, who played primarily as a pass-rusher from FSU’s “BUCK” position finished the year with 43 tackles, including six for loss and 4.5 sacks. Pugh has reportedly been one of the more improved Seminoles this offseason.

Thomas and Pugh hope to become the third FSU linebacker to take home the Butkus. Previous winners from Florida State include Paul McGowan in 1987 and Marvin Jones in 1992.

Mike Ferguson is the editor of The Daily Nole. Follow Mike on Twitter @MikeWFerguson