Texas Tech University Athletics
Saldi Named to Butkus Watch List
August 21, 2003 | Football
Aug. 21, 2003
LUBBOCK, Texas - Texas Tech sophomore linebacker John Saldi (Southlake, Texas/Carroll) was named to the 2003 Butkus Award Watch List Thursday, announced by the Downtown Athletic Club of Orlando. Saldi was one of eight players named to the list from the Big 12 Conference.
After sitting out as a redshirt in 2001, Saldi started his first collegiate game midway through the 2002 season at Iowa State and maintained the position throughout the season. Saldi finished the year with 73 tackles, 12 for loss, an interception and six pass deflections. At the conclusion of the 2002 season in the MAZDA Tangerine Bowl, he earned Team Defensive MVP honors after posting five tackles; four pass breakups, an interception and a sack.
This year's Butkus Award list includes 90 candidates who represent schools and conference from across the country. The Butkus Award Watch List will be trimmed to 10 semifinalists Thu., Oct. 16. That list will be cut down to three finalists, who will be announced via a national teleconference with players, coaches, media members and Butkus Award officials on Thu., Nov. 13. The winner will be announced Fri., Dec. 12, at the Butkus Award Gala in Orlando, Fla.
