ACU redshirt senior linebacker
Will Shaffer has been named one of 35 finalists for the 2024 Buck Buchanan Award, given annually to the FCS national defensive player of the year by Stats Perform.
Fourteen linebackers, including Shaffer, are listed in the field of finalists. The transfer from Arizona State has recorded a team-leading 108 tackles, 48 of which were solo.
Shaffer has also earned 6.5 tackles for loss, two sacks and two interceptions.
His pick in the final minutes against then-No. 5 Central Arkansas sealed the Wildcats' 41-34 victory. Shaffer tied his career-high with 12 tackles in AC's 35-31 win over Tarleton State which clinched the United Athletic Conference championship.
Only one other UAC defender -- Central Arkansas lineman David Walker -- was named as a finalist.
The winner of this year's Buck Buchanan Award will be determined by a national voting panel and announced at the Stats Perform FCS National Awards Banquet on Jan. 4 in Frisco. The top three finalists are invited to the ceremony.
Past winners of the award include Jard Allen, Dexter Coakley, Reshean Mathis and Arthur Moats.
Click here to see the list of 35 finalists and more information about the award.
