SEC Football: Elite Defensive Backs on Jim Thorpe Award Watch List
By Ryan Summers
Apr 11, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Vernon Hargreaves III (1) during the first half at the Orange and Blue Debut at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Vernon Hargreaves III, JR, Florida
Hargreaves is the leader of a Gators defensive back unit that returns a group of talented, young backs under direction of new defensive coordinator Geoff Collins and head coach Jim McElwain.
The preseason all-american led the SEC in pass deflections in 2014 with 13. Hargreaves racked up 50 tackles, 2 fumble recoveries and 3 interceptions in his sophomore season.
Hargreaves was a bright spot for a disappointing Gators team last season and has no doubt in his personal abilities. Hargreaves is the most likely SEC defensive back to take home the Thorpe award this season if he keeps shutting down opponents top receivers.
“I’m the best corner in college football,” Hargreaves said Monday at SEC Media Days. “Without a doubt.”
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