Jack Campbell has candid reaction to winning Butkus Award: 'I'm at a loss for words right now honestly'
Jack Campbell was awarded the Butkus Award as the nation’s best linebacker for his performance this season with the Iowa Hawkeyes. Campbell recorded a total of 115 tackles, 51 solo tackles and 2 interceptions.
Campbell thought he was having a normal interview. Campbell was asked about what it was like to be a finalist when he was given the award. The Iowa LB’s reaction was about as candid as it gets during the phone call with former Illinois great Dick Butkus.
“I’m at a loss for words right now honestly. I really appreciate the honor. No one will ever be able to live up to your footsteps and I just appreciate you paving the way for young linebackers to get to experience this. It’s just such a blessing to be here and be with my family.”
A surprise to remember.@jackcampbell133 x #Hawkeyes pic.twitter.com/hUnLzeRI0r
— Hawkeye Football (@HawkeyeFootball) December 9, 2022
Football Outsider’s FEI Defense rating system is considered one of the best statistical measurements of a team’s performance and this year the Hawkeyes have been ranked 2nd in the nation for their 2022 defense. With players like Campbell, Iowa has been able to hold opponents to a 14.42 points per game.
Campbell will likely be one of the first linebackers taken in the 2023 NFL Draft after the career he’s had.