IOWA CITY — University of Iowa junior defensive back Cooper DeJean and Iowa State University senior defensive back T.J. Tampa have been named a semifinalist for the Bednarik Award, given annually to the nation’s most outstanding defensive player. DeJean and Tampa are two of 20 players on the list.

DeJean is a semifinalist for three national awards: Jim Thorpe Award, Lott IMPACT Trophy and Bednarik.

The Hawkeyes have now had nine semifinalists for the award since 2005. They include DeJean (2023), Jack Campbell (2022), Daviyon Nixon (2020), Josh Jackson (2017), Josey Jewell (2017), Desmond King (2016), Adrian Clayborn (2010), Pat Angerer (2009) and Chad Greenway (2005).

DeJean has played more than 400 snaps in coverage this season without giving up a touchdown. He leads the Hawkeyes in pass break-ups (5), is second in interceptions (2) and seventh in tackles (41) this season. One of his two interceptions thwarted a scoring threat in the end zone against Michigan State.

DeJean and the Hawkeyes rank third in the country in scoring defense (12.3), fourth in passing efficiency defense (100.1), sixth in red zone defense (0.682) and eighth in total defense (281.5). Iowa is the only team to have allowed one rushing touchdown in 2023.

Tampa, a St. Petersburg, Florida, native, has had an outstanding senior season. He’s allowed just one touchdown in 320 coverage snaps and has compiled 33 tackles, two interceptions and seven pass breakups this season.