RENO, Nev. – Nevada senior defensive back Berdale Robins has been named to the preseason watch list for the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award, the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame (OSHOF) and Jim Thorpe Association announced Monday.
The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award is given annually to the nation's best defensive back. The preseason watch list includes 40 of the nation's best defensive backs, representing 10 conferences and one independent. The watch list is selected by a screening committee whose members compile a list of up to 50 players.
Robins was named All-Mountain West Honorable Mention in 2020, holding it down at the cornerback spot with an interception, five passes broken up, and 27 tackles.
The Los Angeles native also tabbed 2021 preseason All-Mountain West First Team honors from Pro Football Focus, Athlon Sports and Phil Steele.
Nevada opens the 2021 season on Sept. 4 at Cal.