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5 potential winners for the Chuck Bednarik Award, CFB’s Defensive Player of the Year

By Jerran Anderson

GAINESVILLE, FL - NOVEMBER 28: Kelvin Taylor #21 of the Florida Gators attempts to run past Derwin James #3 of the Florida State Seminoles during the game at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on November 28, 2015 in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
GAINESVILLE, FL - NOVEMBER 28: Kelvin Taylor #21 of the Florida Gators attempts to run past Derwin James #3 of the Florida State Seminoles during the game at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on November 28, 2015 in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images) /
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GAINESVILLE, FL – NOVEMBER 28: (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
GAINESVILLE, FL – NOVEMBER 28: (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images) /

1. Safety Derwin James, Florida State

The Florida State Seminoles were probably the best three-loss team in college football last season. They could have been a lot better with their best defender, safety Derwin James.

James could very well be the Bednarik Award winner by season’s end in his return to the field in 2017. He was off to a fast start in 2016 before going down with a meniscus tear in his left knee.

He finished the team’s season opener against the No. 11  Ole Miss Rebels as the ACC Defensive Back of the Week after recording a team-high eight tackles and his first career interception.

In 2015, James was a third-team All-ACC selection and a Freshman All-American by many publications. As a freshman, he recorded 91 tackles (52 solo, 39 assisted), 9.5 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.

With nine starters returning on defense, James leads a talented group of Seminoles into 2017 looking to turn a corner. He’s also got cornerback Tarvarus McFadden to rely upon on. McFadden led the FBS, ACC and the team in interceptions last season with eight.

Next: 10 best Heisman trophy candidates

This spot very well could be McFadden’s, but it’s hard to ignore James’ presence on the field. He’s got a nose for the football and looks ready to return to the football field and do damage.

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