ASU Football: Merlin Robertson named to Butkus Award Watch List

Arizona State junior linebacker Merlin Robertson has been named to the Butkus Award Preseason Watch List.

The honor goes out to college football’s top linebacker, and Robertson is one of 51 LB’s on the list.

An anchor on the Sun Devil defense over the last couple of years, Robertson was Pac-12 Defensive Freshman of the Year in 2018 during a season in which he led the team in tackles with 77.

In his career, he has racked up 149 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, and two interceptions. This past season, Robertson led ASU in forced fumbles with three, and he had 72 tackles.

Robertson will return to a defense that features returners such as Darien Butler and Tyler Johnson, while working alongside co-defensive coordinators Marvin Lewis and Antonio Pierce. The winner of the Butkus Award will be announced on Dec. 8.