Pitt's Jordan Whitehead was named the ACC's Defensive Rookie of the Year as well as the Conference's Overall Rookie of the Year following this season. Because of that, it isn't much of a surprise that he is getting some national recognition as well.
The Pitt safety had a monster season, leading the team in tackles despite not winning the starting job until a few weeks into the season after he lost the job out of training camp. Whitehead also defended six passes, had an interception, and recorded half a sack on the year. In addition to the ACC rookie honors, he was also named to the conference's third team.