The Football Writers Association of America announced today that linebacker Sammy Brown has been named as one of 68 candidates on the watch list for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, presented annually to the national defensive player of the year. DALLAS (FWAA) – The Football Writers Association of America released its 2026 Bronko Nagurski Trophy Watch List today, selecting three returning FWAA All-Americans among 68 defensive standouts as contenders for the national defensive player of the year. The official presentation to the recipient of the 2026 Bronko Nagurski Trophy will be at the Bronko Nagurski Awards Banquet in Charlotte, N.C. on Dec. 7. Moore and Bowen are two of the 11 repeating selections on this year's watch list. Returning members from the 2025 watch list: KJ Bolden, Georgia; Drayk Bowen, Notre Dame; C.J.