STARKVILLE, Miss. — Mississippi State cornerback Kelley Jones has been named to the 2026 Bronko Nagurski Trophy Preseason Watch List, the Football Writers Association of America announced Tuesday. The award is given annually to the top defensive player in college football.
The watch list includes standout defensive players from across the country. Finalists will be announced in November, with the winner revealed in December, according to the FWAA.
Jones, a Clarksdale, Mississippi native, is entering his third season with the Bulldogs. He made a significant impact during his sophomore year, appearing in 11 games with four starts and recording 29 tackles. Last season, he earned a starting role and received postseason honors, including All-SEC recognition, establishing himself as one of the conference’s top defensive backs.
The Bronko Nagurski Trophy has been awarded since 1993. It was named in 1995 for Bronislaw “Bronko” Nagurski, a Hall of Fame player known for his two-way play at Minnesota and in the NFL.
Committee members will monitor watch list candidates throughout the fall, with potential additions leading up to the selection of finalists. The FWAA will continue to update the list as the season progresses.
Mississippi State football continues its preparations for the 2026 season, with updates available through the team’s official social media channels.
