Bronko Nagurski Trophy watch list 2017: 5 favorites to win

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ATLANTA, GA – DECEMBER 03: Minkah Fitzpatrick #29 of the Alabama Crimson Tide returns an interception for a touchdown against the Florida Gators in the first quarter during the SEC Championship game at the Georgia Dome on December 3, 2016 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

Minkah Fitzpatrick, DB, Alabama

Any preseason defensive award favorites list would be incomplete without a member of the Crimson Tide, and Fitzpatrick certainly looks like the top Bronko Nagurski candidate on Nick Saban’s always-terrific unit.

Like so many other five-star recruits across the nation, Fitzpatrick joined Alabama as a top-five defensive back prospect ahead of the 2015 season. Fitzpatrick impressively managed to make important contributions for the national champion Crimson Tide as a freshman, racking up two interception return touchdowns and 45 tackles for loss.

The 6-1, 203-pound speedster blossomed into a star last season with a team-high six interceptions, including two pick-sixes, and seven passes defended to earn All-American honors. Injuries forced Fitzpatrick to move between cornerback and safety later in the season, but he showed an unparalleled ability to play any position in the Alabama defensive backfield.

That versatile skill set will help Fitzpatrick put up huge all-around numbers once again, as he also finished 2016 with 66 tackles, including 5.5 for loss, 1.5 sacks and a forced fumble. Fitzpatrick also has 4.4 speed as showcased by his 100-yard interception return for a touchdown against Arkansas, giving him one of the most unique skill sets in college football.

Voters will take note of Fitzpatrick’s status as Alabama’s top defender, and he’s the unquestioned leader of a unit that lost a ton of talent to the NFL last offseason.

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