HOUSTON, TX — The Lombardi Award™ Committee has announced its 13 semifinalists for the 2025 Lombardi Award™, which honors the nation’s top college linemen and linebackers who exemplify the discipline, character, and excellence of legendary coach Vince Lombardi.
Texas Tech had two Red Raiders make the cut. LB Jacob Rodriguez and DE David Bailey.
Rodriguez is a senior who exemplifies what a college football player should represent. He is one of the leaders of a defense that is ranked Top 10 nationally in points allowed per game and yards allowed per game. He has wreaked havoc for opposing offenses all season, creating seven forced fumbles on the season.
Bailey's contribution to the Tech football program rivals Rodriguez's. He is the nation's sack leader so far this season with 11.5 sacks. He is on pace to break Texas Tech's single season sack record this season (15).
Texas Tech's David Bailey (left) and Jacob Rodriguez (right)
(Credit: texastech.com)
Finally, Texas A&M's Cashius Howell is a defensive end for the Aggies and the final semifinalist who plays in the Lone Star State. Howell leads the No. 3-ranked Aggies on defense this season with 9.5 sacks.
Texas A&M's Cashius Howell
(Credit: 12thman.com)
Originally slated to feature 12 semifinalists, the list was expanded to 13 after an exact tie in the voting process. The finalists were selected from a preseason watchlist of more than 90 players across all FBS conferences and independents.
Now in its 52nd year, the Lombardi Award™ continues its tradition of recognizing not just athletic excellence, but also leadership, perseverance, and integrity—core values of Coach Lombardi’s legacy. The 2025 award ceremony will be held Dec. 10, 2025, in Houston, with proceeds from the event benefitting cancer research and patient support programs.
About the Lombardi Award™
Founded in 1970, the Lombardi Award™ celebrates the college lineman or linebacker who demonstrates the leadership, courage, and discipline of Vince Lombardi—qualities that transcend the playing field. The honor is one of the most prestigious in college football, often serving as a springboard to future NFL success.
2025 Lombardi Award™ Semifinalists
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ACC
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Keylan Rutledge, Georgia Tech – OG
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Rueben Bain Jr., Miami – DE
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Big Ten
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Aiden Fisher, Indiana – LB
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Arvell Reese, Ohio State – LB
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Caden Curry, Ohio State – DE
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Sonny Styles, Ohio State – LB
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Matayo Uiagalelei, Oregon – DE
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Big 12
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David Bailey, Texas Tech – DE
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Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech – LB
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Spencer Fano, Utah – OT
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SEC
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Kadyn Proctor, Alabama – OT
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Cashius Howell, Texas A&M – DE
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Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt – TE
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