Travis Hunter, a standout two-way player from Colorado, has won the Chuck Bednarik Award for best defensive player and the Fred Biletnikoff Award for best receiver in college football. Despite these accolades, he was not a finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award, raising questions about the selection process. Hunter is now a strong contender for the Heisman Trophy, awarded to the best overall player in college football.
Payton Wilson, NC State linebacker, has been named the 2023 Chuck Bednarik Award winner, given annually to the best defensive player in the nation by the Maxwell Football Club. Wilson, who also won the ACC Defensive Player of the Year Award and the Butkus Award this year, led the ACC in tackles and tackles for loss, with impressive stats across the board. Despite his individual success, Wilson credits his team's collective effort for his achievements. The Maxwell Football Club has a long history of recognizing talented players and honoring football at all levels.
