10 Breakout players for the 2017 season

Dec 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick (29) is congratulated with a belt on the sideline after scoring a touchdown on an interception during the first quarter of the SEC Championship college football game against the Florida Gators at Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /

1. CB/S Minkah Fitzpatrick, Alabama

When safety Eddie Jackson went down with a broken leg, cornerback Minkah Fitzpatrick stepped in at safety. Since then, the Crimson Tide haven’t missed a beat. As the College Football Playoff looms, the sophomore defensive back is our final player to watch as a 2017 breakout candidate.

Fitzpatrick will anchor one of the best defenses in the country on December 31st. He was selected as a first team All-American candidate this season for his performance. Along with his five interceptions, he also recorded 56 total tackles (35 solo, 21 assisted), 5.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks.

Fitzpatrick led the SEC with five interceptions and returned two of them for touchdowns. He racked up 158 interception return yards this season as well, good for first in the conference. Look for him to play a significant role in the Crimson Tide’s return to the National Championship this season and beyond.

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