Notre Dame Linebacker Jack Kiser Earns Spot on Butkus Award Watch List

Photo byWNDU

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — As the Notre Dame Fighting Irish gear up for their season opener at Texas A&M, veteran linebacker Jack Kiser is already making headlines. The sixth-year standout has been named to the prestigious Butkus Award preseason watch list, an honor bestowed upon the nation’s top linebacker each year.

Kiser’s recognition places him among the elite in college football, following in the footsteps of former Notre Dame greats like Manti Te’o (2012), Jaylon Smith (2015), and Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (2020), all of whom previously claimed the Butkus Award.

With 185 career tackles, Kiser is not just a veteran on the field but also one of the most experienced players in the program, having been with the team since 2019. His leadership and presence are pivotal as the Irish prepare for what promises to be a competitive season.

Reflecting on his final fall camp with the Irish, Kiser shared the unique perspective that comes with experience. "In years past, you go in and it’s like it’s another fall camp. The groans, the bruises, and all that, you kind of... you’re looking forward to the football, but you know it’s going to be a grind," Kiser said. "Being in the sixth camp, you know it’s the last one. You embrace it a little bit more. You’re around younger guys, they kind of give you a new sense of energy. I’m still learning and trying to get better, and it’s been a really great camp in that regard, too. Just knowing that it’s the last one changes your whole perspective of it."

As Kiser looks to make his mark in his final season, his inclusion on the Butkus Award watch list is a testament to his skill, dedication, and the impact he has had on the Notre Dame defense.