Dick Butkus (December 9, 1942-present) - Butkus is widely regarded as one of the best football players ever. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 1983. Considered by many the greatest linebacker ever, the Dick Butkus Award is given annually to the best college linebacker. www.thebutkusaward.com. Recently, Butkus has been more involved in the handling of the award, making sure any proceeds from the event go to charity. His own charity, the Butkus Foundation, is devoted to educating teen athletes about the dangers of steroids and performance-enhancing drugs.