Dylan Rosiek named to Butkus Award Watch List

(WCIA)—Dylan Rosiek committed to playing for Lovie Smith in June 2020. Following Smith’s firing, Rosiek signed with Illinois, not knowing who his coach would be, and stayed with the Illini once Bret Bielema was hired.

“I wasn’t Coach B’s recruit, obviously,” said Rosiek. “He brought me in with open arms, but just coming from that standpoint and then just elevating to a point where I’m a leader on this defense has just been amazing.”

The Florida native was an All-Big Ten Honorable Mention last season, starting all 12 games and leading the conference with four forced fumbles.

AARON HENRY
“Dylan is just a workhorse man like, what he does is not always pretty,” said defensive coordinator Aaron Henry. :He just gets the job done. He’s one of those blue collar, hard-working young men. Whatever job you ask him to do, he’s going to get done.”

While Rosiek doesn’t take much stock in preseason recognition, his teammates are excited to see his nomination to the Butkus award watch list.

“When I tell you it brings tears to my eyes, the way that I’ve watched him grind and work this offseason, it’s truly just amazing when people get recognized for just how much work they do,” said linebacker Ryan Meed. “He’s the same guy every single day, just super consistent and just an amazing friend and an even better ball player.”

The Dick Butkus Award, named after an all-time Illinois great, annually highlights the best linebackr in college football.

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