Most years, Fitzpatrick would be the odds-on favorite for this award, and maybe he is.
But the Crimson Tide are so loaded on the defensive side of the ball — again — that it makes it difficult to say he is the best in the country.
For his efforts, Fitzpatrick has shown incredible versatility, playing cornerback, safety and linebacker for Nick Saban.
The 6-1, 202-pound junior has recorded 44 tackles, with 5.5 coming for loss. He also has five passes defended, 1.5 sacks, an interception and forced a fumble.
Fitzpatrick has been a mainstay in the Tide defense since he came to Alabama, making over 155 career tackles and 40-plus ones for loss. He also has nine career interceptions.