IOWA CITY, Iowa — University of Iowa football defensive tackle Aaron Graves was named to the 2025 Chuck Bednarik Award Watch List for the most outstanding defensive player in the nation on Monday.

In addition to being a Bednarik Award candidate, Graves was previously named to the 2025 Bronko Nagurski Trophy and Lott IMPACT Trophy watch lists last month. Graves was also tabbed a 2025 preseason second team All-American by Phil Steele.

Graves (6-foot-5, 295 pounds) started all 13 games at defensive tackle in 2024, recording 33 tackles, including eight tackles for a loss (six sacks), three forced fumbles, three pass break-ups and two quarterback pressures. His three forced fumbles led the Big Ten. The native of Dayton, Iowa, was an honorable mention All-Big Ten selection last season. Off the field, Graves was a second-team Academic All-American.

Presented annually since 1994, the award is named for University of Pennsylvania linebacker Chuck Bednarik. Preseason honorees are determined by the Maxwell Football Club in collaboration with Pro Football Focus (PFF) and Phil Steele Publications.

Semifinalists for the Bednarik Award will be announced Nov. 11, while the three finalists for the Bednarik Award will be unveiled Nov. 25. The winner of the 31st Bednarik Award will be announced on Dec. 11.

The Hawkeyes kickoff the season against UAlbany on Aug. 30, at Kinnick Stadium beginning at 5 p.m. (CT). Tickets are available for purchase for the season opener at hawkeyesports.com/tickets.

HAWKEYES ON 2025 WATCH LISTS
* Rhys Dakin – Ray Guy Award
* Gennings Dunker – Outland Trophy // Wuerffel Award
* Aaron Graves – Nagurski Trophy
* Mark Gronowski – Maxwell Award
* Logan Jones – Outland Trophy // Rimington Award
* Kamari Moulton – Doak Walker Award
* Zach Ortwerth – Mackey Award
* Drew Stevens – Lou Groza Award
* Kaden Wetjen – Jet Award