DALLAS – Texas senior linebacker Jaylan Ford has been named to the Bronko Nagurski Trophy watch list, the Football Writers Association of America announced on Tuesday. The Nagurski Trophy is awarded annually to the best defensive player in college football.
Longhorn Legends Derrick Johnson and Brian Orakpo won the Nagurski Trophy in 2004 and 2008, respectively. Tuesday's announcement marked the first time in Ford's career that he has been recognized on the trophy's preseason watch list.
Ford is a fourth-year linebacker who has played in 35 games with 15 starts. The Frisco, Texas native had a breakout season in 2022, earning AP All-American accolades after leading the Longhorns with a career-high 119 tackles (61 solo), three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and four interceptions.