PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- Houston defensive tackle Ed Oliver has been chosen as one of five finalists for the 2017 Bronko Nagurski Trophy – presented annually to the nation’s top defensive player by the Football Writers Association of America and the Charlotte Touchdown Club.
Oliver joins North Carolina State defensive end Bradley Chubb, Alabama safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, Iowa middle linebacker Josey Jewell, H and Georgia outside linebacker Roquan Smith as the five finalists for the honor.
A second-team FWAA All-American in 2016, Oliver has followed up his freshman season with another fine year. He has 53 total tackles for the Cougars (6-3).