CORAL GABLES, Fla. - University of Miami sophomore safety Bryce Fitzgerald was named one of 15 semifinalists for the 2026 Paycom Jim Thorpe Award, the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame and Jim Thorpe Association announced Tuesday.

The award recognizes the nation’s top defensive back based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character. Fitzgerald is one of four ACC players and four sophomores named to the semifinalist list.

The Miami native has recorded 18 tackles, including 12 solo stops, one sack, one interception and three pass breakups through seven games this season. Fitzgerald secured Miami’s 43-35 double-overtime victory over Florida State on Oct. 17 with an interception in the end zone on the game’s final play. 

He posted a season-high seven tackles, including six solo stops, in Miami’s 41-13 road win over Clemson on Oct. 3. Fitzgerald followed his interception against Florida State with four tackles, a sack and a pass breakup in the Hurricanes’ 52-23 victory over Pittsburgh on Oct. 24.

The semifinalists represent six conferences and one independent program. A screening committee selected the candidates based on their performance, athletic ability and character. Players outside the semifinalist list remain eligible for consideration as finalists.

Three finalists will be announced Nov. 24 at noon ET on ESPN. The winner will be revealed Dec. 11 during ESPN’s presentation of “The Home Depot College Football Awards” at 7 p.m. ET.