University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Baer, Williams Named to Outland Trophy Preseason Watch List
8/4/2026 12:00:00 PM | Football
Pitt is one of three ACC programs with multiple honorees for the award recognizing college football’s top interior lineman.
PITTSBURGH—Pitt offensive linemen Ryan Baer and BJ Williams have been named to the 2026 Outland Trophy Preseason Watch List, the Football Writers Association of America announced Monday.
The Outland Trophy is presented annually to the nation's top interior lineman on offense or defense. Baer, an offensive tackle, and Williams, a guard, are among 68 players selected for this year's watch list.
Both Panthers enter the 2026 season with extensive starting experience and previous Honorable Mention All-ACC recognition.
Baer has played in 40 career games and made 35 starts at offensive tackle, including 29 starts at right tackle and six at left tackle.
Williams has played in 35 career games with 32 starts at right guard. He was the first true freshman to start on Pitt's offensive line since Dorian Johnson in 2013 and is a three-time All-ACC Academic Football Team selection.
Pitt is one of only three ACC programs with multiple Outland Trophy watch-list selections, joining Miami and SMU. Ten players from the conference earned preseason recognition.
The Outland Trophy, which is celebrating its 81st season, is the third-oldest major award in college football. Established in 1946, it is named for former Penn All-American lineman Dr. John Outland.
Semifinalists for the 2026 Outland Trophy will be announced Nov. 18, followed by the selection of three finalists on Nov. 24. The winner will be revealed during The Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN in December.
The official trophy presentation will take place at the Outland Trophy Awards Dinner on Jan. 27, 2027, in Omaha, Neb.
