Peter Woods named to Bronko Nagurski Award watch list

Peter Woods will represent Clemson Football as a true sophomore on this preseason's watch list for the Bronko Nagurski Award, given to the best defensive player in the nation.
Clemson defensive lineman Peter Woods (11) stretches during the first day of Spring practice at the Poe Indoor Practice Facility at the Allen N. Reeves football complex in Clemson S.C. Wednesday, February 28, 2024.
Clemson defensive lineman Peter Woods (11) stretches during the first day of Spring practice at the Poe Indoor Practice Facility at the Allen N. Reeves football complex in Clemson S.C. Wednesday, February 28, 2024. / Ken Ruinard / staff / USA TODAY NETWORK
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Defensive lineman Peter Woods has been added to the Bronko Nagurski Award watch list. The Nagurski is given annually to the best overall defensive player.

The Nagurski is awarded by the Charlotte Touchdown Club and the Football Writers Association of America. It is voted on by the membership of the FWAA.

It is named after Bronko Nagurski, who played football for Minnesota from 1927-29 before a professional career with the Chicago Bears. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1951.

It was created in 1993. Clemson has one winner: Da’Quon Bowers in 2010. Xavier Watts from Notre Dame won the award last season. Other past winners include Chase Young (Ohio State), Will Anderson (Alabama), Aaron Donald (Pittsburgh), and Luke Kuechly (Boston College).

There are seventy-five players on the list. Finalists will be announced in November and the winner will be unveiled on December 9th at a ceremony in Charlotte. Other notable names include Caleb Downs (Ohio State), Travis Hunter (Colorado), Malachi Moore (Alabama), Harold Perkins (LSU), Malaki Starks (Georgia), and JT Tuimoloa (Ohio State).

Woods played in twelve games in 2023, missing the NC State game due to injury. He collected 26 tackles with 2.5 tackles for a loss and one forced fumble. He only started two games during the season, mostly playing as a backup for Tyler Davis and Ruke Orhorhoro.

Woods is a second-team preseason All-American (Walter Camp), as well as first-team (Athlon) and second-team (Phil Steele) preseason All-ACC player for this season.

Woods played defensive tackle last season but could play more time in 2024 at defensive end. His athleticism gives Clemson the versatility to move him outside and play with a larger line-up, which could present advantages against some teams.

Woods joins the list of Clemson players and coaches who have been named to preseason watchlists.

Cade Klubnik (Maxwell)

Phil Mafah (Maxwell)

Blake Miller (Outland)

Barrett Carter (Lott IMPACT)

Dabo Swinney (Dodd Trophy)

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