Strait Captures Bronko Nagurski Trophy As Nation's Top Defensive Player

Oklahoma defensive back Derrick Strait was named the 2003 recepient of the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, presented annually to the nation's best all-around defensive college football player. The award was presented at a black tie banquet Monday evening in Charlotte, N.C.

The winner was determined in a vote by the Football Writer's Association of America (FWAA).

Strait became the second Sooner in the past three years to win the award. Roy Williams earned the trophy in 2001.

The Bronko Nagurski Trophy has been presented by the Charlotte Touchdown Club since 1993. The award was established to compliment the Heisman Trophy Award which had never been presented to a defensive player prior to Michigan cornerback Charles Woodson in 1997.

"I can't think of anyone more deserving," said OU head coach Bob Stoops. "Derrick Strait has had a huge impact on our program the past four years. He really epitomizes what we appreciate in our players. He is humble and self-sacrifices for the good of our program."

Bronko Nagurski Award | Derrick Strait on Sooner Awards

Strait amassed 69 tackles and three interceptions with 127 return yards including a 97-yard return at Texas Tech in 2003. He recovered a team-high four fumbles and forced two himself. Strait holds the Oklahoma record for games started in a career and consecutive starts by a DB.

"It was an honor to be considered for the award," said Strait. "To win it was a great thrill. I owe everything to my teammates and especially my coaches. I had not played much corner before I came to Oklahoma and Mike Stoops molded me into the player I am. I want to thank he and Bob Stoops for what they have done for me."

Strait won the award over West Virginia linebacker Grant Wiley, LSU defensive tackle Chad Lavalais, UCLA defensive end Dave Ball and fellow Sooner Tommie Harris.

The banquet featured University of Michigan head coach Lloyd Carr as the Keynote Speaker and Todd Blackledge of CBS Sports as Master of Ceremonies.

University of Oklahoma Athletics

Strait Captures Bronko Nagurski Trophy As Nation's Top Defensive Player

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