Najja Johnson Named to Jim Thorpe Award Watch List
7/12/2013 12:00:00 AM | Football
OKLAHOMA CITY - The Jim Thorpe Award 2013 watch list was announced today, which includes 48 of the nation's best defensive backs, representing eight conferences and one independent. Senior cornerback Najja Johnson was named to the list, making it three Buffalo football players who have been recognized nationally so far in the preseason.
Johnson led the Mid-American Conference with five interceptions in 2012, which also ranked 13th nationally. In his second year as the team's starter, the Marietta, GA native made 43 tackles (27 solo) and broke up six other passes to lead the team with 11 passes defended. He ended the season on a high note, making the SportsCenter Top 10 with a jaw-dropping interception at Bowling Green, adding a second interception later in the game and a season-high seven tackles against the Falcons.
Miami's Dayonne Nunley and Northern Illinois' Jimmie Ward also represented the MAC on the watch list.
One of the most coveted awards in college football, the award was established in 1986 and is named after history's greatest all-around athlete, Jim Thorpe. Thorpe excelled as a running back, passer and kicker on the offensive side of the ball, but also stood out as a defensive back. In addition to his legendary performance on the football field, Thorpe played professional baseball and won Olympic gold medals in the decathlon and pentathlon.
A screening committee that compiles a list of 30-50 players chooses the Jim Thorpe Award watch list. The list is not final, and players who have outstanding seasons are added as the season progresses. The Thorpe Award Winner is selected from three finalists and will be announced at The Home Depot College Football Awards on Thursday, December 12, 2013 on ESPN.
