Peal Named to Thorpe Award Watch List
8/12/2026 12:16:00 PM | Football
Cornerback Chris Peal was named to the Jim Thorpe Award Watch List on Wednesday, an award presented annually to the nation's top defensive back.
One of the most exclusive preseason watch lists, the Thorpe Award Watch List only recognizes 35 players, and Peal is one of just three selections from the ACC and 15 cementing the senior (fourth year with an additional year of eligibility in 2027) as one of the nation's best defensive players.
It's the latest preseason recognition for Peal, who has been named to multiple Preseason All-America teams and the Preseason All-ACC team.
A projected first-round pick in numerous early NFL mock drafts, Peal transferred to Syracuse from Georgia prior to last season, earning a starting role in every game for the Orange in 2025. He had 47 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, seven pass breakups and forced a fumble on the season.
Pro Football Focus ranks him as one of the top returning cornerbacks in college football this season, alongside sophomore Demetres Samuel Jr., who started every game at the opposite corner spot last season.
The Thorpe Award adds players to its watch list throughout the season, paving the way for Samuel or others from the Orange to join Peal.Â
Tickets for the 2026 season are on sale now at Cuse.com/FootballTickets. Don't miss your chance to see a full slate of exciting games in the Loud House!
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One of the most exclusive preseason watch lists, the Thorpe Award Watch List only recognizes 35 players, and Peal is one of just three selections from the ACC and 15 cementing the senior (fourth year with an additional year of eligibility in 2027) as one of the nation's best defensive players.
It's the latest preseason recognition for Peal, who has been named to multiple Preseason All-America teams and the Preseason All-ACC team.
A projected first-round pick in numerous early NFL mock drafts, Peal transferred to Syracuse from Georgia prior to last season, earning a starting role in every game for the Orange in 2025. He had 47 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, seven pass breakups and forced a fumble on the season.
Pro Football Focus ranks him as one of the top returning cornerbacks in college football this season, alongside sophomore Demetres Samuel Jr., who started every game at the opposite corner spot last season.
The Thorpe Award adds players to its watch list throughout the season, paving the way for Samuel or others from the Orange to join Peal.Â
Tickets for the 2026 season are on sale now at Cuse.com/FootballTickets. Don't miss your chance to see a full slate of exciting games in the Loud House!
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Players Mentioned
DB/WR
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