USC Safety Kamari Ramsey Earns Spot on 2025 Chuck Bednarik Award Watch List

USC safety Kamari Ramsey has been named to the prestigious 2025 Chuck Bednarik Award Watch List, recognizing him as one of college football’s top defensive talents. The Chuck Bednarik Award, presented annually since 1995, honors the nation’s most outstanding defensive player, celebrating the legacy of NFL Hall of Famer Chuck Bednarik, a legendary two-way player known for his toughness and leadership with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Ramsey, a redshirt junior, opted to return to USC for the 2025 season despite NFL Draft eligibility, poised to anchor the Trojans’ defensive backfield. As a key figure in defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn’s system, Ramsey’s mastery of the scheme has earned him recognition as a “coach on the field.” Now in his third year under Lynn, Ramsey’s leadership and on-field instincts are expected to elevate USC’s defense in the competitive Big Ten Conference.

In 2024, Ramsey showcased his versatility and impact as a redshirt sophomore, starting all 11 games he played. He recorded 60 tackles (tied for third on the team), including 5.5 tackles for loss (26 yards) and two sacks (19 yards). Ramsey also contributed five pass breakups, two forced fumbles, one interception, and one quarterback hurry, earning him All-Big Ten Honorable Mention honors. His stellar performance also landed him on the Lott IMPACT Trophy Watch List, as well as the Preseason Athlon Sports All-Big Ten Second Team and Phil Steele All-Big Ten Third Team.

The Chuck Bednarik Award, named after the iconic “60-minute man” who excelled on both offense and defense, celebrates players who embody excellence, toughness, and leadership. Ramsey’s inclusion on the watch list underscores his growing reputation as one of college football’s elite defenders.

The Bednarik Award selection process will continue with semifinalists announced on November 11, 2025, and finalists revealed on November 25. The winner will be declared during the ESPN Home Depot College Football Awards Show on December 11, with the formal presentation set for March 13, 2026, at the Maxwell Football Club Awards in Atlanta.

As Ramsey continues to lead USC’s defense, his presence on the Bednarik Award Watch List signals a bright future for both the standout safety and the Trojans in 2025.