Clemson Linebacker Sammy Brown Honored with 2025 High School Butkus Award

Clemson, SC — April 16, 2025

Clemson freshman linebacker Sammy Brown has been officially named the recipient of the 2025 High School Butkus Award, capping a remarkable senior year and solidifying his status as one of the top linebacker prospects in the nation. The award, presented annually to the nation’s top linebacker at the high school, collegiate, and professional levels, is widely recognized as one of the most prestigious individual honors for linebackers.

Brown, who starred at Jefferson High School in Jefferson, Georgia, before enrolling early at Clemson University in January 2024, has long been a standout both on and off the field. Known for his unique blend of speed, power, football IQ, and leadership, Brown’s recognition with the Butkus Award cements his place among the elite defensive talents to emerge from the high school ranks in recent years.

Dominant Senior Season

During his senior campaign at Jefferson, Brown posted staggering numbers on both sides of the ball, reflecting his impact as a true two-way star. On defense, he recorded 113 total tackles, 19 tackles for loss, 8 sacks, and 2 interceptions, while also serving as a hard-nosed runner on offense, where he amassed more than 1,400 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns.

Brown’s play was characterized by relentless pursuit, textbook tackling technique, and the ability to read plays before they developed—traits that made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. He anchored a Jefferson defense that consistently shut down elite competition and helped the team to a deep playoff run.

But it wasn’t just the stats that caught the attention of the Butkus Foundation’s selection committee. Brown’s sideline-to-sideline range, motor, and intangibles such as leadership and character set him apart from the rest of the field.

“Sammy Brown represents everything we look for in a Butkus Award recipient,” said Andy Butkus, son of the legendary Dick Butkus and chairman of the Butkus Foundation. “He’s a true student of the game, a leader in his community, and a fearsome competitor who elevates everyone around him. The future is incredibly bright for him.”

Transition to Clemson

After committing to Clemson in June 2023, Brown immediately became the crown jewel of the Tigers’ recruiting class. Ranked as a consensus five-star prospect and the No. 1 linebacker in the 2024 recruiting cycle by multiple outlets, Brown chose Clemson over other powerhouse programs, including Georgia, Ohio State, and Alabama.

His early enrollment has allowed him to participate in spring practices, where he has already made an impression on Clemson’s coaching staff and veteran players.

“Sammy has come in with the right attitude,” said Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney. “He’s humble, works hard, and has picked up the defense quickly. He doesn’t look like a freshman out there—he plays with maturity and confidence beyond his years. We’re thrilled to have him.”

Swinney added that while Clemson plans to bring Brown along at the right pace, there is a strong chance he could contribute on special teams and potentially rotate in defensively as early as this fall.

“He’s a natural leader,” said defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin. “Whether it’s in the film room, in the weight room, or on the field, Sammy sets a tone. He’s going to be a huge part of our future.”

The Legacy of the Butkus Award

Named after NFL Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, widely regarded as one of the greatest linebackers in football history, the Butkus Award has been honoring top linebackers since 1985. The high school category was added in 2008 to recognize emerging talent at the grassroots level.

Previous high school winners of the Butkus Award include future NFL standouts like Jaylon Smith, Manti Te’o, and Nakobe Dean. The award does not simply reward athletic ability but also emphasizes character, integrity, and impact on the community.

In keeping with that legacy, Brown has been deeply involved in various charitable initiatives in Jefferson, often volunteering his time at youth camps and mentoring younger players. His coaches and teachers describe him as a “leader in every sense of the word.”

“Sammy is the kind of young man every coach dreams of having,” said Jefferson head coach Travis Noland. “He’s incredibly gifted, but he never lets that go to his head. He works hard, helps others, and truly loves the game. This award is well-deserved.”

Looking Ahead

With the Butkus Award now part of his résumé, expectations will be high for Brown as he begins his collegiate journey at Clemson. But those who know him best believe he’s more than up for the challenge.

“Sammy doesn’t run from pressure—he embraces it,” said his high school defensive coordinator, Marcus Jones. “He’s always been the guy everyone looks to when the game is on the line. Clemson’s getting a special one.”

As Clemson reloads for another run at the ACC title and a possible College Football Playoff berth, the arrival of Sammy Brown adds another layer of talent to what is already one of the nation’s most formidable defenses. Whether it’s in limited snaps as a freshman or as a full-time starter down the road, Brown’s presence is sure to be felt.

The 2023 High School Butkus Award may be just the beginning for Sammy Brown. With a tireless work ethic, elite physical tools, and an unshakable mindset, the linebacker from Georgia appears destined to follow in the footsteps of the legends who came before him—and maybe, one day, become a legend himself