League: NCAAF Sport: College Sports Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Jelani McDonald named to Thorpe Award Watch List ahead of 2026 season

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 15, 2026, 5:50 AM

Last updated Aug 15, 2026

Jelani McDonald named to Thorpe Award Watch List ahead of 2026 season

Summary

Texas Longhorns safety Jelani McDonald has been named to the preseason watch list for the 2026 Jim Thorpe Award, which honors the best defensive back in college football. Coming off a standout 2025 season with 80 tackles and three interceptions, McDonald aims to build on his achievements. Coach Steve Sarkisian praised McDonald's offseason preparation and potential contributions to the team's success as they pursue a national title. The semifinalists for the award will be revealed on October 27, 2026, with finalists announced by November and the winner determined on December 11, 2026.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Jelani McDonald named to preseason Thorpe Award Watch List
•Finished 2025 season with 80 tackles and three interceptions
•Coach Sarkisian praised McDonald's offseason effort
•Semifinalists will be announced on October 27, 2026
•Award winner revealed on December 11, 2026

Latest Updates

5:50 AMYahoo Sports — Longhorns Daily News: Texas’ Jelani McDonald lands on Jim Thorpe Award watch list
2:08 PMYahoo Sports — Longhorns DB Jelani McDonald earns spot on Thorpe Award Watch List

What they're saying

"
In large part thanks to a phenomenal offseason and an outstanding 2025 season, Texas football’s Jelani McDonald has landed on this year’s Jim Thorpe Award watch list, according to the award committee’s announcement earlier this week. The award is given to college football’s top defensive back each season based around the credentials such as on […]
— Yahoo Sports