Two Utes, Aggie DB Up For Thorpe Award Semifinalist List

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Utah defensive backs Julian Blackmon and Jaylon Johnson and Utah State’s DJ Williams, are members of the 2019 Paycom Jim Thorpe Award watchlist.

The honor goes to the “best defensive back in collegiate athletics, based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character.”

Blackmon, Johnson, and Williams are up for a guaranteed spot on the semifinalist list for the award. The winner of a fan vote will be guaranteed a spot on the semifinalist list.

Fans have until 4 p.m. (MDT) on October 18 to cast their votes.

Vote for @JulianBlackmon & @NBAxJay1!@jimthorpeaward
Vote: https://t.co/XMBj7djKkN pic.twitter.com/qBVuSPuxc3

— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) October 11, 2019

Fans can vote once per day.

The winner of the fan vote will be announced on October 21.

Blackmon has played in five games for the Utes in 2019. He’s posted 22 total tackles, 2 interceptions, and 3 pass breakups.

Johnson has played in all six of Utah’s games this season. He’s recorded 20 total tackles, 1 tackle for loss, 1 interception, and 7 pass breakups.

The Utes currently have a record of 5-1.

Williams has played in five games for the Aggies this season. He’s had 32 total tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and 4 pass breakups.

Utah State believed in me when a lot of schools didn’t…one more season to prove Utah State right…one more season to bring it back to Logan. THANK YOU GOD…LETS WORK!!!! #AGGIEUP #GODSWARRIOR pic.twitter.com/Pd9lZ4exrE

— DJ Williams (@GodsWarrior615) May 29, 2019

The Aggies currently have a 3-2 record.

The DBs are three of 46 players on the award’s watchlist.