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Andon Thomas Named to Chuck Bednarik Award Watch List

by: Charles Grevious08/12/25goblackknights
NCAA Football: American Athletic Championship-Tulane at Army
Black Knights linebacker Andon Thomas (51) celebrates with an axe after his interception against the Tulane Green Wave at Michie Stadium. Credit: Danny Wild-Imagn Images

WEST POINT, N.Y. – Army West Point linebacker Andon Thomas has been named to the 2025 Chuck Bednarik Award Watch List, as announced Thursday by the Maxwell Football Club. The Bednarik Award is presented annually to the most outstanding defensive player in college football.

Thomas, a senior and team captain from Liberty Hill, Texas, returns as one of the leaders of the Black Knights’ defense after a breakout 2024 season. He led Army in total tackles (98), solo tackles (48), and assisted tackles (50), showcasing his toughness and instinctive playmaking ability.

In addition to his tackling numbers, Thomas added 3.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions, and four passes defended—contributing to all phases of the defense and solidifying his role as a versatile, sideline-to-sideline presence.

Thomas is one of several key returners for a unit looking to build on its strong finish last season, which led the nation in redzone defense and was fourth in points allowed per game.  

His recognition on the Bednarik Watch List places him among the top defensive talents in the nation entering the 2025 campaign.

The winner of the Chuck Bednarik Award will be announced at the ESPN College Football Awards Show in December.

Courtesy: Army West Point Athletics

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