The Ohio State football team lead all teams with four players appearing on the Bronko Nagurski watch list. The award has been around since 1993 and is handed out to the player judged to be the best defensive player annually.
Of the 75 players announced on Tuesday, Buckeyes Denzel Burke, Caleb Downs, JT Tuimoloau, and Tyliek Williams were included. Iowa and Georgia are tied for second with two players each on the list.
Downs, who is entering his sophomore season, transferred from Alabama as one of the best safeties in the country last season, while the trio of Burke (cornerback), Tuimoloau (defensive end), and Williams (defensive tackle), were a part of the group of players that decided to return for one more season rather than declare for the NFL draft. All are expected to be a big part of one of the best defenses in the country this season.
4 Buckeyes earn @NagurskiTrophy Watch List honors 💥
@DenzelBurke10 @tyleikk @caleb_downs2 @JT_Tuimoloau pic.twitter.com/axlqMYbNRH— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) July 30, 2024
The Trohpy will be awarded by the FWAA and the Charlotte Touchdown Club on December 9.
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