Two UCLA defensive backs were named to the 2015 Jim Thorpe Award Preseason Watch List Monday: Redshirt junior Ishmael Adams and senior Fabian Moreau.
A total of 42 players from 10 different conferences and Notre Dame were nominated for the award, which recognizes the country’s best defensive backs. The list is preliminary, as additional names will be added based on performances this season.
Adams, who started every game last season, set a school record by returning both of his interceptions for touchdowns. Against Arizona State, the then-redshirt sophomore completed a 100-yard kickoff return. He registered 41 tackles on the season, including seven in one game against both Memphis and Colorado.
In his third season at UCLA, Moreau made second-team all-conference, recording 53 tackles and a team-high eight passes defended. In the Bruins’ Alamo Bowl victory, the then-junior made a season-best nine stops.
The three finalists for the award will be announced on Dec. 10, with the award banquet scheduled for Feb. 2.
Compiled by Claire Fahy, Bruin Sports senior staff.