HOUSTON – Senior offensive lineman Darnell Wright was named a semifinalist for the 49th Rotary Lombardi Award, the Rotary Club of Houston announced on Wednesday afternoon.
Wright becomes just the fifth Tennessee Volunteer in program history to be a semifinalist for the award, joining Chip Kell (1970), Reggie White (1983), John Henderson (2001) and Jesse Mahelona (2005).
The Rotary Lombardi Award goes annually to the college football lineman —offense or defense –who, in addition to outstanding performance and ability, best exemplifies the character and discipline of Vince Lombardi. As the legendary coach of the Green Bay Packers, Lombardi first made a name as the smallest but toughest member of Fordham University’s “Seven Blocks of Granite,” renowned in their day (1934-37) for being the most unyielding line in college football. Hence why the trophy features a block of granite.
A staple of the potent Tennessee offense, Wright has anchored the offensive line of college football’s No. 1 offense that currently leads the country with 49.4 points per game and 553.0 yards per game. The West Virginia native has started every game this season at right tackle and has logged 540 offensive snaps.
Wright has been a brick wall on the line as he has not allowed a sack in 14 consecutive contests, dating back to last season. He went toe-to-toe with star Alabama edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. on The Third Saturday and October and stood his ground for 60 minutes, not allowing a hit on the quarterback and conceding just half of a tackle for loss.
His prowess up front has put the country on notice as he is projected as a Day 1-2 prospect and is a two-time SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week, garnering recognition following games against Alabama and Kentucky.
Wright is one of 12 semifinalists for the trophy that is comprised of six offensive linemen, three defensive linemen, two linebackers and a tight end.
Further balloting will take place from (Nov. 4-14) at which time the final four will be announced on Nov. 17. Those four individuals will be invited to attend the gala award presentation in Houston on Dec. 7 when the winner of the 49th Rotary Lombardi Award will be announced live.