The Butkus Award is presented annually to the nation’s best collegiate linebacker, and this years’ watch list showcases 51 talented backs. Among them, but certainly separated from them, is Texas Tech’s next-in-line LB Riko Jeffers. His path to the finish will be challenged by seven other nominees from the Big 12.
Where other universities might make the claim of being DBU, Texas Tech has begun down a path of continual prestige at the linebacker position; starting with Dakota Allen, bolstered by Jordyn Brooks, and now fatefully resting on Riko Jeffers’ shoulders.