Iowa football LB Jayden Montgomery named to Butkus Award watch list

Iowa has always prided itself on strong linebacker play. 

Dating all the way back to Chad Greenway, the Hawkeyes always seem to have at least one stout linebacker on the roster. Last season, it took longer for that guy to emerge. Eventually Karson Sharar turned into a good contributor for Phil Parker’s defense.

Entering 2026, a lot of hype has built up for sophomore Cam Buffington in the linebacker room. Because of that, Jayden Montgomery has flown under the radar. The veteran has received his flowers recently, though.

Earlier this week, he was named to the Wuerffel Trophy watchlist. And on Thursday, Montgomery was named to the prestigious Butkus Award watch list.

The man in the middle.@JaydenMontgo02 ➡️ Butkus Award Watch List 🏆 pic.twitter.com/XA8IDnd2Ig

Named after legendary Chicago Bears linebacker Dick Butkus, the Butkus Award is given annually to the best linebacker in college football. The Hawkeyes have had one player win the award in program history. Jack Campbell was the winner of the Butkus Award in 2022.

Montgomery and Buffington are relatively unproven commodities at the moment. That could change quickly this season. Iowa may get improved play out of its linebackers in 2026.

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This article originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire: Iowa football LB Jayden Montgomery named to Butkus Award watch list