Lombardi Award announces 2026 preseason watch list

The Rotary Club of Houston and the Lombardi Award Committee have announced the 2026 Lombardi Award Preseason Watch List, featuring 54 of the top offensive and defensive linemen and linebackers in NCAA FBS college football.

Among the honorees are Georgia offensive lineman Drew Bobo and James Madison University offensive lineman Zach Greenberg. Greenberg, a Preseason First Team All-Sun Belt honoree, was also recently named to the Outland Trophy Watch List. Other notable players from the SEC, Big Ten, Big 12, and ACC are included in the selection.

The Lombardi Award is presented annually to a player who exemplifies the character and discipline of Hall of Fame coach Vince Lombardi. Semifinalists will be announced on November 3, 2026, with the four finalists revealed on November 17. The winner will be announced at a gala on December 9, 2026, with proceeds supporting cancer research.