NC State’s Ikem Ekwonu is the Dude

Coming into the season, it was well known that Ikem Ekwonu was going to take some big steps forward. Already getting love from NFL scouts, Ekwonu had been named to back-to-back second-team All ACC from AP and PFF in his first two seasons.

Now he’s going next level.

Tuesday, Ickey was named one of three finalist for the Outland Trophy, given to the nation’s most outstanding interior lineman.

𝘽𝙄𝙂 honor for the 𝘽𝙄𝙂 fella.

Ikem Ekwonu is a FINALIST for the Outland Trophy!

🔗 https://t.co/mVKBDqJsXX pic.twitter.com/eO6bEM3j5q

— NC State Football (@PackFootball) November 23, 2021

This comes after being projected as a top-5 pick in the NFL draft. Ickey has continually been praised by Pro Football Focus on their weekly grade outs and been named ACC Offensive Lineman of the Week twice. Ekwonu will participate in Friday’s “Senior Day” activities, although he states he’s still deciding his future plans.

The award winner will be announced on December 9th, as part of The Home Depot College Football Awards.