Hatfield’s off-field troubles nearly derailed his career last year, but he rejoined the team in the 2015 season and in the spring entered a no contest plea in abeyance for an assault charge from last summer.
Whittingham said Hatfield’s leadership has stood out this fall.
"Great to see that happen, the success story of him," Whittingham said. "The situation he was in last year to where he is now is incredible. He’s got his degree in hand, he’s got the respect of his teammates. He’s been a great leader all fall camp long, and the players recognized that.