Since 2004, Michigan has had three defenders win the Lott IMPACT Trophy: Jabrill Peppers (2015), Aidan Hutchinson (2021), and Junior Colson (2023). Two current Wolverines have the early potential of bringing home the hardware.
On Wednesday, the Lott IMPACT Trophy Watch List was revealed and both Mason Graham and Will Johnson were among the 42-man watch list.
The 42-man Lott IMPACT Trophy Watch List is comprised of 18 defensive backs, 13 defensive linemen and 11 linebackers. There are 13 players from SEC schools, the most of any conference, followed by the Big Ten with 12, while the ACC and Big 12 each have seven players on the watch list, to go with three from independents.
The Lott IMPACT Trophy is the only major college football award that considers character. Named after former NFL Hall of Fame star Ronnie Lott, The Lott Trophy annually goes to the Defensive IMPACT Player of the Year, a player who has had the biggest impact on his team both on and off the field. IMPACT stands for Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community and Tenacity, all characteristics exhibited by Lott during his illustrious playing career.
• All-American (second team, 2023)
• All-Big Ten selection (first team, coaches; third team, media, 2023)
• Tournament of Roses 2023 Rose Bowl Game Defensive MVP
• Academic All-Big Ten honoree (2023)
• Shared Defensive Freshman of the Year honors (2022)
• Two-time letterman (2022-23)
• Has appeared in 27 games with 15 starts along the defensive line
• All-American (first team, 2023)
• All-Big Ten selection (consensus first team, coaches and media, 2023)
• Defensive MVP, 2023 National Championship Game
• Shared Defensive Freshman of the Year honors (2022)
• Two-time letter winner (2022-23)
• Appeared in 25 games with 16 starts at cornerback
