Utah DB Julian Blackmon named to the Bronko Nagurski Trophy watch list

Julian Blackmon had one heck of a sophomore season, and he’s made a bit of a name for himself, so much so that he’s now on his second pre-season award watch list. He was named to the Bednarik Award a week ago, and now he has been named to the Bronko Nagurski Award watch list, which similar to the Bednarik, is awarded to the Defensive Player off the Year.

Blackmon, the Heart of Dallas Bowl MVP due to his two interceptions, will be the leader for a very talented and deep defensive secondary along. This could be a very big season for Blackmon, and one that may even put him into NFL Draft considerations. If Utah’s defensive line can return to their regular dominance up front, there will be a ton of opportunities for Blackmon and crew on the back end to make game changing plays.

The likely hood of a DB winning this award doesn’t seem likely, but it’s fun to see Utah’s young DB get as much pub as he’s been getting, especially considering that he’s a local kid.

We’ll see Blackmon make a run for his postseason awards starting soon against Weber State.