UCLA's Eric Kendricks wins Butkus Award

UCLA's Eric Kendricks has been recognized as the nation's best collegiate linebacker. 

The senior Bruins player was presented the Butkus Award at a surprise event on campus that featured an appearance by Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker and award namesake Dick Butkus. 

Kendricks won the award over Miami's returning semifinalist Denzel Perryman. The four-man race was rounded out by Notre Dame sophomore Jaylon Smith and University of Washington senior Hau'oli Kikaha.

Here's a statement from the award selection committee: 

We commend Kendricks for his diagnostic skill, cover instincts, sideline-to-sideline pursuit and on-field leadership. The two-time captain will finish his career as the Bruins' all-time tackling leader.

He has been overlooked much of his career despite being an extremely productive tackling machine and opportunistic playmaker against the run and pass. His exceptional instincts, motor, toughness and football intelligence distinguished his play. His integrity, selflessness and leadership embody what the Butkus Award represents.

Kendricks is the first Bruin to receive the award.