2024 FINALISTS
OFFENSIVE TACKLE
Kelvin Banks Jr. has been the picture of consistency and excellence in three years at Texas, having started 36 games at left tackle and yielding just 3 sacks during his time in Austin. He is a stalwart on the line of scrimmage for Texas, garnering many honors while on the "Forty Acres" including First-Team All-Big 12 and Freshman All-American status. His great protection has been instrumental to the development of the explosive Texas offense, and he he is projected by many to be an early first-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft.
OFFENSIVE TACKLE
Will Campbell has been the anchor in the LSU offensive line since arriving on campus, starting every game as a true freshman and all 31 games to date at left tackle. He has earned First-Team All-SEC honors and has allowed just one sack in his entire career against elite competition. He was the first-ever offensive lineman to wear the No. 7 patch at LSU, reserved for team leaders and the best of the best. At just 20 years old, his technical skill, athleticism, and size project him as a strong NFL prospect with a long career.
PENN STATE
Abdul Carter is a disruptive, athletic edge who has started 25 games for the Nittany Lions at linebacker and defensive end. Entering his 3rd year in Happy Valley, Carter earned First-Team All-Big Ten preseason honors and in 2024, has collected 8 sacks and forced 2 fumbles. With his speed and disruptive playstyle, he has cemented himself as one of the most dynamic defensive players in college football and is projected to be an early first-round NFL Draft selection.
SOUTH CAROLINA
Kyle Kennard is proving to be an immediate force in the SEC, recording 10.5 sacks this season in his first year at South Carolina. He leads perhaps the most disruptive Gamecocks defensive line in years, putting himself in a position to break the school's mark for sacks in a single season which was set by former first overall pick Jadeveon Clowney back in 2012. With his highly explosive pass-rushing skills, combined with his high motor, Kennard projects as a first-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Lombardi Award™ Committee Releases the 4 Finalists
HOUSTON (November 20, 2024) - The Lombardi Award™ Committee proudly announces the four finalists for the 2024 Lombardi Award™. Kelvin Banks Jr., University of Texas; Will Campbell, Louisiana State University; Abdul Carter, Pennsylvania State University; and Kyle Kennard, University of South Carolina, have been chosen from a preseason watchlist of over 90 standout college linemen across all FBS conferences and independents.
These exceptional athletes embody the core values of the Lombardi Award™: character, discipline, and excellence, both on and off the field.
2024 marks the 51st anniversary of the award, which has been handed out in Houston, Texas, since its inception. This year’s winner will be revealed during the annual award dinner on December 11, 2024, at the Hilton America's in Downtown Houston.
Net proceeds from gala sponsorship and table sales are dedicated to supporting cancer research and families and patients battling cancer—a cause deeply rooted in the legacy of the Lombardi name.