University of North Carolina Athletics
Waddell, Reid Named To Thorpe Award Watch List
August 29, 2002 | Football
Aug. 29, 2002
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. - University of North Carolina defensive backs Michael Waddell and Dexter Reid have been named to the Jim Thorpe Award preseason watch list. The Thorpe Award is presented annually to the nation's best collegiate defensive back.
A second-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference selection last season, Waddell is considered one of the best cover cornerbacks in the country. In 2001, he broke up 14 passes-- the fourth-highest single-season total in UNC history ? and had 54 tackles, including 41 solo stops and 13 assists. Waddell enters the season with 24 consecutive starts.
A free safety from Norfolk, Va., Reid is Carolina's top returning tackler with 99 stops last season, including five tackles for losses and two sacks. He also had two interceptions and five pass breakups. His 67-yard interception for a touchdown last season against Virginia sealed the Tar Heels' 30-24 victory. Reid is rated by The Sporting News as the No. 2 safety in the country and is a preseason second-team All-America.
The Jim Thorpe screening committee will announce the 10 semifinalists the first week in November and then name three finalists the Monday before Thanksgiving. The winner will be announced at ESPN's College Football Awards Show on December 12 in Orlando, Fla.
Three-time UNC All-America Dre Bly was a finalist for the Thorpe Award in 1996 and 1997.
