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Texas defender named to Polynesian College Football Player of the Year watch list

Longhorns LB Liona Lefau has officially been named to the prestigious cultural award's watch list.
ByMatthew Wilson|
Dec 21, 2024; Austin, Texas, USA; Texas Longhorns linebacker Liona Lefau (18) against the Clemson Tigers during the CFP National playoff first round at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Dec 21, 2024; Austin, Texas, USA; Texas Longhorns linebacker Liona Lefau (18) against the Clemson Tigers during the CFP National playoff first round at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Texas junior linebacker Liona Lefau was been named to the NCAA's Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award watch list today. The award honors the most outstanding college football player of Polynesian ancestry who exemplifies exceptional ability and integrity both on and off the field.

Lefau was a key contributor on Texas' elite defense last season, and figures to play an even larger role for DC Pete Kwiatkowski in 2025. He's having an excellent offseason in Austin and has seemingly gained some muscle in his lower body.

He saw action in all 16 games for the Longhorns and finished the 2024 season with 63 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 1 interception, 2 pass deflections, and 1 forced fumble.

Some of the award's past winners include Tua Tagovailoa, Marcus Mariota, Ronnie Stanley, Penei Sewell, and Tetairoa McMillan. Needless to say, some incredibly talented players have been the recipient of the distinguished award over the past decade, and Lefau could undoubtedly be the next if he has an great year in 2025.

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