CHARLOTTE, N.C. (theACC.com) – Four returning 2024 All-ACC performers have been named to the prestigious Paycom Jim Thorpe Award 2025 Preseason Watch List, as announced today by the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame (OSHOF) and the Jim Thorpe Association.
Widely regarded as one of college football’s most prestigious individual honors, the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award is presented annually to the nation’s top defensive back. This year’s preseason watch list features 35 of the country’s premier defensive backs, representing nine conferences and one independent program.
The preseason watch list is selected by a dedicated screening committee, which considers previous performance and preseason All-America recognition. While the current list includes up to 50 of the nation's top defensive backs, it is not final—additional players may be added throughout the season based on their on-field performance.
ACC Players Named to the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award 2025 Preseason Watch List
Name, School, Class, Position
Avieon Terrell, Clemson, Junior, Cornerback
Terry Moore, Duke, Senior, Safety
Chandler Rivers, Duke, Senior, Cornerback
Isaiah Nwokobia, SMU, Senior, Safety
A screening committee composed of members of the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame (OSHOF) closely evaluates defensive backs throughout the season, including those named to the watch list. The field will be narrowed to up to 15 semifinalists on October 28, 2025. From that group, three finalists will be announced on November 25, 2025, with the winner revealed live on ESPN during The Home Depot College Football Awards at 7 p.m. ET on December 12, 2025.
The official presentation of the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award will take place on February 10, 2026, in Oklahoma City, following the national awards show. Each year, the current recipient and all past winners are invited to attend and be honored. The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Banquet annually welcomes over 600 guests, including numerous celebrities, dignitaries, and supporters, in a celebration of excellence in college football.
The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award is a member of the National College Football Awards Association (NCFAA), which encompasses college football’s most prestigious awards. The NCFAA’s 25 awards have honored more than 950 recipients since 1935. Visit NCFAA.org for more information.