The Oklahoma Sooners will have one of the best defenses in college football in 2026, and at the center of it is senior linebacker Kip Lewis. Lewis is in his fifth year with the program after signing with Brent Venables' first recruiting class in 2022.
On Tuesday, Lewis was named to the Nagurski Award watch list along with defensive tackle David Stone. The Nagurski is given to the best defensive player in college football. Two Oklahoma Sooners have won the award in the past: cornerback Derrick Strait and safety Roy Williams.
Lewis plays with an infectious spirit that gives energy to the rest of the defense. In 2025, Lewis recorded 76 total tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and four sacks in the best statistical season of his career.
Back for year
five, Lewis' presence in the middle of Brent Venables' defense provides the Sooners with a fast, playmaking linebacker that is as adept against the pass as he is getting downhill against the run.
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This article originally appeared on Sooners Wire: Oklahoma linebacker named to Nagurski Award watch list
