WILLIAMSBURG, Va. – Having established himself as one of college football's elite defensive players this season, William & Mary standout defensive lineman Nate Lynn was selected as a finalist for the 2021 Stats Perform FCS Buck Buchanan Award, which is presented annually to the national defensive player of the year in the Football Championship Subdivision.
 
Lynn is one of just 25 players honored as a finalist for the prestigious award. A 50-member, national media panel will select the winner, who will be announced on Jan. 7 in Frisco, Texas – the eve of the FCS championship game.
 
One of the country's most productive and explosive players, Lynn finished the regular season ranked third nationally in sacks per game (1.2), tied for fifth in sacks (12) and tied for second in forced fumbles (6).
 
Additionally, his 12 sacks, which he totaled in just 10 games, tied W&M's single-season record set by former All-Americans Adrian Tracy (2009, 14 games) and Luke Cullinane (1996, 12 games).
 
In addition to his impressive sack total and ability to create turnovers, Lynn has totaled 52 tackles and a pair of pass breakups this season.
 
The Buchanan Award, now in its 27th season, is named for the legendary Hall of Fame defensive lineman. Past recipients include two-time winner Dexter Coakley, Rashean Mathis and Jared Allen.