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Oregon LB Bryce Boettcher Wins Burlsworth Trophy

On3 imageby: Justin Hopkins12/10/24
Bryce Boettcher
Photo courtesy of Burlsworth Trophy

Oregon linebacker Bryce Boettcher has earned his accolades this season with stellar play in the middle of Dan Lanning’s defense. The standout from South Eugene (Ore.) was rewarded for his hard work with a Burlsworth Trophy on Monday night. The award is given to the best player in college football that began their career as a walk-on.

Boettcher of course excelled at Oregon at two sports, baseball and football. He was drafted by the Houston Astros following his last baseball season for the Ducks.

The other finalists include Indiana defensive lineman James Carpenter and Buffalo linebacker Shaun Dolac.

So far this season Boettcher has racked up 87 total tackles for Oregon including 2 sacks. The former walk-on has been a mainstay in the middle of Oregon’s defense this season.

About the Award:

When Brandon Burlsworth arrived on campus in 1994, he had no money, no famous last name, and absolutely no Division 1 scholarship offers. Through his unbelievable work ethic and ceaseless determination, Brandon not only earned a scholarship, but became team captain, All-SEC 1997-1998, First Team All-SEC 1998, Football News First Team All-American in 1998, and the first All-American from the University of Arkansas in a decade. His success was not limited to the gridiron. He was also named to the All-SEC Academic Honor Roll every year from 1995-1998, and was the first football player in the entire history of his university to earn a Masters degree “before” playing his last game.

Brandon was selected by the Indianapolis Colts as the 63rd overall pick in the 1999 NFL draft. After minicamp, he was projected by his coaches to start as a rookie. Unfortunately, Brandon was tragically killed in a head-on automobile collision just 11 days after the draft.

In 1999, the University of Arkansas created a scholarship endowment in Brandon’s name. Eighteen $5,000 academic scholarships, and one $10,000 Walk-On athletic scholarship are given out each year. The Brandon Burlsworth Foundation is also engaged in various charitable endeavors including the provision of free eye-care to thousands of underprivileged children.

In 2010, the Burlsworth Trophy was created to honor the achievements and successes of the Walk-On athlete. It is presented annually to the Most Outstanding player who began his career as a Walk-On.

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