TUSCALOOSA, Ala.–Alabama’s Jonathan Allen became the first senior in Crimson Tide history to win the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, which is presented to college football’s National Defensive Player of the Year.
Allen, a defensive end, received the award from the Football Writers Association of America and Charlotte Touchdown Club, during the Nagurski award banquet on Monday at the Charlotte (N.C.) Convention Center.
One of the other four finalists that joined Allen for the honor was his teammate, Reuben Foster—who was the recipient of the 2016 Butkus Award. Allen’s choice to return for a senior season has propelled Alabama to have one of the nation’s best defenses. In following his lead, the Tide ranks first in scoring defense (11.8 ppg), run defense (63.4 ypg) and defensive efficiency (98). Allen has this year’s group ranked third in total defense (248 ypg) and sacks with 45. As for his individual numbers, he’s totaled 56 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks and 15 quarterback hurries. Allen is tied for the team lead in defensive touchdowns (two), as both of his scores came on fumble returns against conference teams.
Others that joined Allen as finalists were: Tavarus McFadden (defensive back, Florida State), Christian Wilkins (defensive tackle, Clemson) and Jabrill Peppers (linebacker, Michigan). Allen was the eighth Tide player to be recognized as a finalists for the Nagurski Trophy, joining Reggie Ragland (2015), Landon Collins (2014), C.J. Mosley (2013), Dee Milliner (2012), Mark Barron (2011), Terrence Cody (2009) and Rashad Johnson (2008).
***All information came via press release from UA’s athletics communication department***
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
