Owen Grover, a senior at Wartburg College, has been honored as the national defensive player of the year by D3football.com, marking the first time in the college's history that a player has received this recognition. Grover expressed his pride in achieving this award, attributing his success to the support of his teammates and coaches, highlighting the impact of the coaching staff on his development. His exceptional performance led Wartburg to multiple victories, including winning the American Rivers Conference championship for the second consecutive season and securing a spot in the NCAA Playoffs and the national semifinal round.

By the Numbers
  • Finished the 2023 season with 113 total tackles, 5.0 TFLs, 4.0 sacks, one interception, four pass breakups, three quarterback hurries, one fumble recovered, and one forced fumble
  • Graduated from Wartburg on Dec. 10, 2023, and will attend the University of Iowa for medical school in fall 2024
State of Play
  • First national player of the year honor in program history
  • Fourth Wartburg football player to be a two-time conference MVP, and the first on the defensive side
  • Qualified for the NCAA Playoffs and advanced to the national semifinal round
  • Finished the regular season undefeated for the second consecutive year
Bottom Line

Owen Grover's outstanding performance and recognition as the national defensive player of the year has not only made history for Wartburg College but also exemplifies the impact of his leadership and skill on the college's football program, leaving a lasting legacy for future players to aspire to.