Chandler Rivers and Terry Moore, both standout defensive backs for Duke University, have been named to the 2025 Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Preseason Watch List. This prestigious honor is awarded annually to the nation’s top defensive back, recognizing excellence in performance, athletic ability, and character. Their inclusion on this list highlights their exceptional skills and contributions to Duke’s defense.Ball Durham+11Ohio University+11Duke University+11investors.paycom.com
The Jim Thorpe Award, established in 1986 and named after the legendary athlete Jim Thorpe, is one of college football’s most esteemed individual honors. The 2025 Preseason Watch List features 35 of the country’s premier defensive backs, representing nine conferences and one independent program. The list is compiled by a screening committee that considers previous performance and preseason All-America recognition. The field will be narrowed to up to 15 semifinalists on October 28, 2025, with three finalists announced on November 25, 2025. The winner will be revealed live on ESPN during The Home Depot College Football Awards on December 12, 2025.investors.paycom.comSMU Athletics+3ACC+3investors.paycom.com+3
Chandler Rivers, a senior cornerback from Beaumont, Texas, has been a cornerstone of Duke’s secondary. In the 2024 season, he earned First Team All-ACC honors and was recognized as a First Team All-American by multiple publications. Rivers’ performance was particularly notable, as he received the highest cornerback grade in the nation from Pro Football Focus with a rating of 90.4, narrowly surpassing Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron. His ability to shut down top receivers and his playmaking skills have made him a key asset to Duke’s defense.bvmsports.comBall Durham+1On3+1
Terry Moore, a graduate safety from Richmond, Virginia, has been a consistent and reliable presence in Duke’s defensive backfield. In the 2024 season, he was named a Second Team All-American and was ranked as the No. 10 returning safety by Pro Football Focus. Moore’s leadership and experience have been invaluable to the team’s success, and his ability to read the game and make crucial plays has earned him recognition among the nation’s elite defensive backs.247Sports+13Duke University+13Ball Durham+13bvmsports.com
The inclusion of both Rivers and Moore on the Jim Thorpe Award Preseason Watch List underscores Duke’s strong defensive unit and the individual talents that contribute to its success. Their performances in the upcoming season will be closely monitored, as they aim to solidify their positions among the top defensive backs in college football.clemsontigers.com+3Duke University+3Ohio University+3
As the season progresses, the spotlight will be on these two athletes to see if they can continue their impressive performances and potentially bring home the prestigious Jim Thorpe Award. Their dedication, skill, and leadership are sure to inspire their teammates and set a high standard for excellence in college football.
