Washington State DE/OLB Travis Long is one of 51 players on the 2012 Butkus Award watch list.
The award, which will be handed out for the 28th time this year, is given to the nation's best linebacker.
Long is making the transition from defensive end to outside linebacker in the Cougars' new 3-4 defensive scheme. The Gonzaga Prep grad finished 2011 with 42 tackles, 12 for loss, and four sacks. He was a 2nd team All-Pac-12 selection.
The WSU senior is also on the preseason watch list for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, given to the country's best defensive player.
