Andrew Simpson earns a spot on the Butkus Award Watch List

Ahead of the 2025 season, the Butkus Foundation released the 2025 Butkus Award Preseason Watch List.

Viewed as one of college football's most respected honors, the award is presented annually to the nation's top linebacker. It's awarded in honor of Hall of Famer Dick Butkus.

This year, 51 of the nation's top linebackers earned a spot on the list, including UNC football's own Andrew Simpson. He is one of eight ACC players named to this year's watch list.

Following a strong career at Boise State, Simpson elected to transfer to North Carolina to finish up his collegiate eligibility. The Wilder Ave, California native appeared in 40 games as a Bronco, recording 140 total tackles (94 solo), 12.5 sacks, eight passes defensed, five forced fumbles, three interceptions, two fumble recoveries, and one blocked punt.

Simpson is one of the main additions to the UNC football program's linebacker core, a group that has been pieced together via additions through the transfer portal. In Belichick's first season at the helm, the Tar Heels will be heavily relying on newcomers with experience, like Simpson, to help guide the program to success this upcoming season.

The UNC football program aims to make a push toward a College Football Playoff bid, and a guy like Simpson can help them do that. Let's remember: Simpson played in the College Football Playoff for Boise State, so he is well-aware of what it takes to get to that point.

For now, the focus is on what's ahead, as UNC football fans should be excited to see what Andrew Simpson can bring to the table in his lone season as a Tar Heel.