The Jim Thorpe Award is “given annually to the best defensive back in college football based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character.” The 2026 preseason watch list featured 35 players. On Tuesday, the award trimmed that list to 15 semifinalists, three of whom are from the SEC.
Georgia‘s KJ Bolden, Oklahoma‘s Peyton Bowen and Kentucky‘s Jordan Castell are all semifinalists for the 2026 Jim Thorpe Award, presented by Paycom.
The playmakers that have our attention. 👀🏈 Congratulations to the 15 semifinalists that are one step closer to college football’s premier defensive back honor! The chase for the Thorpe Award continues. 🏆 #ThorpeAward #ThorpeAwardDBs #CollegeFootball #CFB #NCAAFootball https://t.co/aKDfvkU0uU
— Paycom Jim Thorpe Award (@jimthorpeaward) October 27, 2026
Bolden, a junior from Buford, GA, has spent his entire career with the Bulldogs. He sits fifth on Georgia’s defense in tackles (22) and is tied for second in passes defended (3). Bolden did not play in the Bulldogs’ loss to the Auburn Tigers. Head coach Kirby Smart is uncertain if he’ll return for this weekend’s game vs. Florida.
Bowen, a senior out of Corinth, TX, ranks second on the Sooners in tackles (35). He leads Oklahoma’s stout defense in passes defended (5) and interceptions (2). Like Bolden, Bowen has spent his entire career with one school. He has been with the Sooners since 2023.
Castell, an Orlando, FL native, has been a walking big play since transferring from the Gators to the Wildcats this offseason. The senior defender has 65 tackles, four passes defended and four interceptions for a Kentucky team that leads the SEC and Power 4 teams in turnover margin (+13). Castell’s 42-yard pick-six sealed the Wildcats’ win over Bowen’s Oklahoma squad in 7.
The winner of the 2026 Jim Thorpe Award will be announced on Friday, Dec. 11. at 7 p.m. ET.
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