Mekhi Blackmon named to Jim Thorpe Award watch list

Editor’s Note: Mekhi Blackmon was not named to the watch list. The author saw this Pro Football Focus article and thought it was the official watch list, but it is not. He apologizes for being a buffoon and has promised to double check before publishing.

Colorado Buffaloes cornerback Mekhi Blackmon has been named to the Jim Thorpe Award watch list, given annually to the nation’s best defensive back.

Blackmon emerged as the Buffs’ best and most consistent cornerback in the 2020 season. He came into his own, leading the team in pass deflections and doing his best for a really good CU defense. That was his first healthy season, as he suffered injuries in the previous three years.

He should be even better in 2021. Wherever he lines up — outside or in his preferred nickel role — he’s going to be a leader on a young and talented group. If the Buffs are anywhere as successful as last season, the secondary will have go from questionable to a strength. Blackmon could be the key to that.

Joining Blackmon on the watch list are some big names, such as preseason favorite Derek Stingley Jr. of LSU, the underrated Admad Gardner of Cincinnati and potential top-10 draft pick Kyle Hamilton of Notre Dame.

Also on the list are some incredible names, least of all Storm Duck, Smoke Monday, Coby Bryant, Raleigh Texada and Yusuf “Deuce” Corker.