LSU linebacker Harold Perkins has recently been recognized as one of the top college football players in the nation. The Maxwell Football Club announced on Monday that Perkins has been named to the prestigious 2023 Chuck Bednarik Preseason Watch List.
The Chuck Bednarik Award, named after Chuck "Concrete Charlie" Bednarik, is presented annually to the College Defensive Player of the Year. Bednarik, a renowned player from the University of Pennsylvania and a former All Pro linebacker and center for the Philadelphia Eagles, is a distinguished member of both the College and Pro Football Halls of Fame. Notably, he was the last NFL player to excel on both offense and defense.
As a freshman, Harold Perkins showcased his exceptional skills on the field, earning him recognition as a freshman All-American and a first-team All-SEC selection last year. With an impressive performance in the 2022 season, Perkins emerged as one of college football's most talented defensive playmakers.
Originating from New Orleans, Perkins contributed significantly to the LSU Tigers' success. Leading the team in tackles for loss with 13.0 and sacks with 7.5, he proved himself as a force to be reckoned with. His remarkable abilities were acknowledged with weekly SEC honors in three consecutive victories for LSU.
One of Perkins' standout performances came in the win over Ole Miss, where he recorded six tackles, two quarterback hurries, and one sack. This outstanding display of skill earned him the SEC Freshman of the Week title.
Continuing his dominance, Perkins garnered back-to-back SEC Defensive Player of the Week honors for his exceptional contributions in victories over Alabama and Arkansas. Against the Crimson Tide, he made eight tackles, three quarterback hurries, and secured a sack.
The win over Arkansas witnessed Perkins delivering one of the best all-around defensive performances in LSU's history. With eight tackles, three sacks, and two forced fumbles, he made an indelible impact on the game, leading to his recognition as the Walter Camp National Defensive Player of the Week.
Perkins' success extends beyond the football field. He has also excelled in the classroom, earning SEC Academic Honor Roll status for his outstanding achievements as a student-athlete.
