FSU’s James, Walker Make Second Watch List

Florida State senior defensive end DeMarcus Walker and sophomore safety Derwin James were each named to a second watch list on Friday.

Both players got to see their names on the Bronko Nagurski Trophy watch list on Friday, which annually goes to the nation’s best defensive player and is presented by the Charlotte Touchdown Club. Both players were also named to the Bednarik Award watch list on Tuesday.

Walker, a 6-3, 275-pounds Jacksonville native, had a breakout season for the Seminoles in 2015. Walker led the team with 10.5 sacks, 15.5 tackles for loss and four forced fumbles. Walker added a Peach Bowl interception to close the season after notching a career-high 2.5 sacks in the regular season finale — a 27-2 victory at rival Florida.

James comes into his sophomore year with All-American hype after a freshman campaign in which he led the Seminoles with 52 solo tackles. James did just about everything for FSU as a freshman, ranking second on the team in tackles, tackles for loss, sacks, forced fumbles and fumble recoveries. James has also been named to the Lott IMPACT Trophy watch list.

Both players will likely be tested early as the Seminoles open the season in Orlando on Sept. 5 against Ole Miss. The Rebels averaged more than 40 points per game last season.