Oklahoma Sooners defensive end named to Lombardi Award watch list

Thomas Racking Up Preseason Honors

Oklahoma defensive end R Mason Thomas is having a strong start to the 2025 season, already landing on two prestigious watch lists.

Back-to-Back Watch List Recognition

Thomas was initially named to the Bednarik Award watch list on Monday, putting him in the running for one of college football's top defensive player honors. Just one day later, he added another accolade to his resume: the Lombardi Award watch list.

This prestigious award recognizes outstanding offensive and defensive linemen who exemplify the character and discipline championed by legendary coach Vince Lombardi.

Following in the Footsteps of Sooners Legends

Three former Sooners have already claimed the Lombardi Award: Lee Roy Selmon (1975), Tony Casillas (1985), and Tommie Harris (2003). Thomas now has the opportunity to join their ranks.

A Breakout Season Ahead

Thomas is coming off a breakout 2024 season where he recorded nine sacks and led the Sooners in pressures. His performance earned him a spot on the 2025 All-SEC preseason second team back in July. He'll look to build on that success in his final year with Oklahoma.

Relentless pursuit.@thomss_r » Lombardi Award Watch List
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— Oklahoma Football (@OU_Football) August 12, 2025