LSU linebacker Whit Weeks has quickly emerged as one of the most respected and impactful players in college football, both for his exceptional on-field performance and for the way he carries himself off the field. His inclusion on the prestigious Lombardi Award watch list is more than just another accolade—it’s a testament to the type of leader, competitor, and role model he has become in Baton Rouge. The Lombardi Award, named in honor of legendary Green Bay Packers coach Vince Lombardi, is presented annually to the most outstanding lineman in college football who best epitomizes the values of leadership, courage, performance, and discipline, not only during games but in life as a whole. For Weeks, the nomination represents recognition of his relentless work ethic, his leadership qualities, and his dedication to representing LSU with pride.
Weeks’ journey to this point has been defined by a combination of natural talent, relentless preparation, and an unwavering commitment to the team-first mentality that coaches and teammates often praise. While some players arrive at a program with hype and fade under the pressure, Weeks has done the opposite. Since stepping onto the field for LSU, he has consistently elevated his game, growing into one of the Tigers’ defensive anchors. His sideline-to-sideline speed, ability to diagnose plays quickly, and physical tackling style have made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. But what sets him apart is that he plays with a blend of intelligence and aggression—two qualities that often separate good linebackers from great ones. That combination is exactly the type of attribute the Lombardi Award seeks to recognize.
The award itself carries a deep legacy in the sport, and its values mirror much of what Weeks has shown throughout his career. Leadership for him isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room but rather about setting an example every single day—whether it’s in the weight room at 6 a.m., during grueling summer workouts in the Louisiana heat, or when studying hours of film to perfect his understanding of opponents’ tendencies. His teammates often point to his calm demeanor during tense moments in games as a source of stability for the entire defense. Even when the stakes are high and the game is on the line, Weeks has a way of focusing the team, reminding them of their assignments, and helping them stay locked in on the task at hand.
Courage is another core value associated with the Lombardi Award, and Weeks embodies it on multiple levels. On the field, courage is evident in his willingness to take on blocks from players much larger than him, to stand in against a running back charging full speed, and to make open-field tackles with precision and force. Off the field, courage can be seen in his ability to handle the pressures of being a key player at one of the biggest programs in college football while maintaining his authenticity and focus. In the age of NIL deals, social media attention, and intense public scrutiny, Weeks has stayed true to himself, prioritizing his team and personal growth over distractions.
Performance is perhaps the most visible element of his candidacy for the Lombardi Award, and Weeks has delivered in that department consistently. His stats speak for themselves—high tackle counts, tackles for loss, and game-changing plays in critical moments. But performance for a linebacker is about more than numbers; it’s about consistency and impact. Weeks is the type of player who not only racks up tackles but also changes the way offenses game-plan. His speed allows him to cover tight ends and running backs in the passing game, while his physicality at the point of attack makes him a force against the run. Opponents often have to account for his presence before every snap, and that kind of influence is rare.
Discipline, the final pillar of the Lombardi Award criteria, is something Weeks has displayed since his earliest days with the Tigers. Discipline in football means keeping composure, staying assignment-sound, and executing the fundamentals under pressure. Weeks is a student of the game, someone who doesn’t rely solely on instinct but instead supplements his athletic gifts with preparation and attention to detail. He takes coaching seriously, embraces feedback, and works to correct mistakes quickly. That discipline extends beyond the football field into his academic commitments and community involvement. At LSU, he has been involved in community outreach programs, speaking to youth about hard work and perseverance, which further underscores why he is being recognized for an award that celebrates well-rounded excellence.
Being on the Lombardi Award watch list is a major honor, but it is also a challenge—a reminder that the eyes of the college football world will be on Weeks throughout the season. For some players, that kind of spotlight can be intimidating, but Weeks seems to thrive in it. He understands that awards are not won on hype alone; they are earned through week-in and week-out dedication and execution. This season will test his leadership as LSU looks to compete not only in the SEC but also on the national stage. His performance could be a deciding factor in close games, and as the defensive unit’s heart and soul, his energy and playmaking ability will be crucial.
It’s also worth noting the kind of company Weeks now keeps on the watch list. Past Lombardi Award winners have included some of the most dominant players in college football history—athletes who went on to successful NFL careers and left lasting legacies at their respective schools. While Weeks’ story is still being written, being included among the sport’s elite already places him in a special category. For LSU, it’s another example of the program continuing to develop players who meet the highest standards, both in terms of athletic performance and character.
His nomination also resonates with LSU fans, who take pride in seeing one of their own recognized for more than just statistics. The LSU faithful know the value of players like Weeks—those who bring toughness, consistency, and leadership to the field every Saturday. His journey reflects the broader identity of LSU football: resilience, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. In a sport where headlines often focus on flashy plays or off-field drama, Weeks’ recognition for his all-around qualities is refreshing and inspiring.
As the season progresses, Weeks will have opportunities to further solidify his place as a top contender for the Lombardi Award. Big matchups against SEC rivals will be prime opportunities to showcase his skills and leadership on a national stage. Whether it’s making a crucial third-down stop, forcing a turnover in a high-pressure situation, or rallying his teammates after a tough series, his impact will be felt. The path to winning the Lombardi is never easy—it requires not only great play but also maintaining the highest level of discipline and focus through the grind of the season.
In the end, whether Weeks takes home the trophy or not, his inclusion on the watch list is already a victory. It validates the countless hours of training, film study, and mental preparation he has invested. It affirms the respect he has earned from coaches, teammates, and opponents alike. And perhaps most importantly, it reflects that he is living out the core values that the Lombardi Award seeks to honor. For a player like Whit Weeks, those values aren’t just words on a plaque—they are principles that guide how he approaches the game and life every single day.
If Weeks continues on his current trajectory, there is little doubt that he will leave a lasting mark on LSU football. He represents the best of what the program strives to develop: not only a great athlete but also a great person. In a sport built on toughness, precision, and teamwork, he has emerged as a shining example of what it means to be a leader. His name being on the Lombardi Award watch list is a recognition of past accomplishments, but it is also a glimpse into what could be a bright and decorated future. For LSU fans and the college football community at large, Whit Weeks is a player worth watching—not just because of the tackles he makes, but because of the values he upholds every time he steps on the field.
