Three American Athletic Conference players have been named to the preseason watch list for the 2022 Bednarik Award, which goes to the to defensive player in college football.

Memphis safety Quindell Johnson, Cincinnati linebacker Deshawn Pace and Houston safety Gervarrius Owens were The American's three representatives on the list. 

Owens was a first team all-conference selection last season, while Johnson earned second-team honors and Pace was an honorable mention choice.

The American has had two winners of the Bednarik Award since the award was first presented in 1995. Former Temple linebacker Tyler Matakevich won in 2015, while former Tulsa linebacker Zaven Collins was the 2020 winner.



2022 Bednarik Award Watch List
(American Athletic Conference Players)
Deshawn Pace, Cincinnati
Gervarrius Owens, Houston
Quindell Johnson, Memphis