UCLA Football: Jaleel Wadood Named to the Jim Thorpe Award Watch List

UCLA defensive back Jaleel Wadood has been named to the Jim Thorpe Award preseason watch list.

The 2017 Jim Thorpe Award watch list announced today includes 45 of the nation’s best defensive backs, representing ten conferences.

The Jim Thorpe Award honors the best defensive back 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.

The Jim Thorpe Award watch list is chosen by a screening committee who compile a list of 30-50 players. 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 7, 2017, on ESPN. The Jim Thorpe Award Banquet will be held on Tuesday, February 6, 2018, in Oklahoma.

The Jim Thorpe Award Banquet will be held on Tuesday, February 6, 2018, in Oklahoma.

Congratulations, Jaleel!


Go Bruins!!!