Longhorns trio named to Bronko Nagurski Trophy watch list
For Hill, this is familiar territory. The Longhorns' star EDGE was also named to the preseason watch list last year. He showed why during the regular season, leading the team in total tackles with 103 and forced fumbles with four. Due to his play, the Kansas native added to his trophy case. That included SEC Co-Defensive Player of the Week accolades on Oct.14th and Walter Camp National Defensive Player of the Week honors on Oct.15th.
For Simmons, this is the first time his name has been connected to the Bronco Nagurski award. He is coming off a stellar freshman season in which he led the Longhorns in sacks with nine. He finished second on the team in quarterback hurries with nine and forced fumbles with three. The Texas native made history as he became the first Longhorn to win the Shaun Alexander National Freshman of the Year award.
Rounding out the list is Taaffe, who has become one of the best defensive backs in the nation. The former walk-on started every game last season, finishing with 78 total tackles. He also made life difficult for quarterbacks with 10 pass deflections. Over the last few years, he has become a staple in Steve Sarkisian's defense and turned himself into a legitimate NFL prospect.
While the Longhorns trio has made headlines with their play, they do face the competition. The Bronko Nagurski Trophy is presented annually to the nation's top defensive player, and rankings will change over the next few months. Luckily for Texas, they have a good track record with this honor. Last year, Jahdae Barron was one of four finalists. In 2014, former Longhorns star Malcom Brown was a finalist, and in 2008, Brian Orakpo took home the honors. Regardless of how the award plays out, the Longhorns' talented trio is poised to do big things and build on what have already been unforgettable college careers.
This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Bronko Nagurski Trophy watch list includes three Texas Longhorns
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