Gators Duo Tabbed to 2017 Ted Hendricks Award Preseason Watch List

Gators Duo Tabbed to 2017 Ted Hendricks Award Preseason Watch List

Monday, August 21, 2017 | Football

Jefferson and Zuniga named to national award watch list

By: Katie Callahan

2017 Ted Hendricks Award Preseason Watch List

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Defensive linemen Cece Jefferson and Jabari Zuniga earned a spot on the Ted Hendricks Award Preseason Watch List, as announced by the Ted Hendricks Foundation.

Jefferson, a social and behavioral sciences major, garnered the watch list nod after playing in 12 games during the 2016 season. During that time, Jefferson notched six starts and totaled 30 tackles, 6.5 of which were for a loss.The Glen St. Mary, Fla. native also recorded 1.5 sacks for a total loss of 13 yards during his sophomore campaign. He logged five quarterback hurries on the season as well.

Zuniga, a social and behavioral sciences major, played in all 13 contests last season, garnering three starts as a redshirt freshman. The Marietta, Ga. native tallied 25 tackles on the year, including 8.5 tackles-for-loss. Zuniga led the Gator squad with five sacks, while also posting 11 quarterback hurries and one forced fumble. For these efforts, Zuniga garnered Coaches' Second Team All-SEC honors.

The Ted Hendricks Award is named in honor of college football's first three-time All-American. On-field performance, exceptional winning attitude, leadership abilities, contributions to school and community, and academic preparedness are some of the criteria used to determine the Award's winner.

Members of the national media, head coaches, professional scouts and former winners are included in the Award's voting committee. Candidates may represent any class as well as any four-year NCAA accredited school. The candidate's primary position must be defensive end.

The winner of the Ted Hendricks Award will be announced on Dec. 6, 2017.

NCFAA Preseason Watch Lists
July 10