OKLAHOMA CITY --- The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award 2017 watch list was announced Friday and includes 45 of the nation's best defensive backs, including North Carolina senior cornerback M.J. Stewart.
Stewart, a 6-0, 200-pound native of Arlington, Virginia, led the team with 11 pass breakups and finished sixth with 59 tackles as a junior. Stewart ranks third all-time at UNC with 29 pass breakups, including 25 over the last two seasons. He was an honorable-mention All-ACC selection in 2016.
The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award is one of the most coveted awards in college football. It isawarded to the best defensive back in college football based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character.