As the start of the 2026 college football season inches closer by the hour, expectations are high for the Texas Longhorns. That is partly due to a talented core that includes senior defensive back Jelani McDonald. On Wednesday, McDonald was recognized for his play when he was named to the preseason watch list for the 2026 Jim Thorpe Award. Each year, the award is given to the best defensive back in college football.
The Longhorn star is coming off one of the best seasons of his career. He finished the 2025 campaign with a team-high 80 tackles. As McDonald showed that he was one of the best players at his position in the nation, he also added three interceptions to his resume. His play came as no surprise to those who have watched him improve every year.
Jelani McDonald has been named to the Thorpe Award Watch List 🤘@jelani_mcd24 x @jimthorpeawardpic.twitter.com/i61DfDWUc7
— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) August 12, 2026
Since stepping foot on campus, McDonald has been a human highlight reel, adding 115 total tackles, including five for a loss, to his resume. The Texas native has also recorded eight pass deflections in that span, including a career-high six last season. Now McDonald's focus will be on continuing to build on his success as the Longhorns chase a national title.
In just a few months, McDonald will have more of an idea where he stands in the voting when the semifinalists are revealed on Oct.27. About a month later, that list will be narrowed down to three finalists before the winner is revealed during the Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN on Dec. 11.
Thought coach Sarkisian was really passionate when talking about Jelani McDonald today...
— Cory Mose (@Cory_Mose) August 6, 2026
Sark said he felt McDonald deserved more all-conference honors a year ago and he praised the way Jelani attacked this offseason
"I think this defense with coach Muschamp really fits… pic.twitter.com/GJyA93jwBw
While McDonald will face plenty of competition, he has proven that he can hold his own in the SEC. He will also get some help from fellow stars such as Colin Simmons, Raheem Biles, and Bo Mascoe. Regardless of how the season plays out, McDonald will be at the center of the Longhorns' success.
Follow us on X/Twitter at @LonghornsWire.
This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Longhorns DB Jelani McDonald earns spot on Thorpe Award Watch List