A pair of Kevin Steele's most influential leaders on his increasingly deadly Auburn defense have been named two of the best defenders for the 2018 season.
Defensive lineman Dontavius Russell and cornerback Javaris Davis have been named to the Bednarik Award preseason watch list, announced by the organization Monday morning.
As a junior on Auburn's dominant D-line last season, Russell tallied 6.5 tackles for loss and three sacks. On six passes defended, Davis racked up two INTs, a pick-six and a forced fumble.
Safety Tray Matthews was named to the watch list last season. Before the previous season, buck linebacker Carl Lawson and defensive back Rudy Ford make the 85-man cut. Semifinalists for the award will be narrowed down Oct. 29 and the three finalists will be chosen Nov. 19. Alabama's Minkah Fitzpatrick took home the hardware last season.
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Nathan King, senior in journalism with a minor in business, is The Plainsman's sports editor.
