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Alabama's Anderson wins Nagurski Trophy for 2nd straight year

Justin Ford / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Alabama linebacker Will Anderson won the Nagurski Trophy on Monday, given annually to the nation's most outstanding defensive player.

Anderson, who also took home the award last season, is the first player to win this trophy in back-to-back years since Northwestern linebacker Pat Fitzgerald (1995-96).

The Alabama star was one of four finalists for the award alongside Georgia defensive back Christopher Smith, Pitt defensive tackle Calijah Kancey, and USC defensive end Tuli Tuipulotu.

Anderson racked up 51 tackles (17 for loss), 10 sacks, and one interception through 12 appearances in 2022. The junior amassed seven games with at least one sack this season, including two multi-sack outings.

He set career highs with 101 tackles and 17.5 sacks last year.

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