The Haines City native is one of the top 20 defensive players in the country.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Redshirt sophomore defensive back Derwin James is among 20 quarterfinalists for the Lott IMPACT Trophy, the Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation announced Wednesday.

James leads Florida State with 29 tackles and has four pass breakups, 1.5 tackles for loss and 0.5 sacks. Named the top player in the country by both ESPN and Sports Illustrated before the season, James was a consensus preseason All-American while earning Watch List honors for the Bednarik, Maxwell, Nagurski, Thorpe, Hornung and Walter Camp awards.
James is averaging 32.7 yards per kickoff return on three tries, including a career-long 49-yard return against NC State on Sept. 23.

Named after Ronnie Lott, the trophy celebrates its 14th season this year. It is given to the player who exhibits the same characteristics Lott embodied during his distinguished career. IMPACT stands for Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community and Tenacity.
Semifinalists will be announced Nov. 8 and four finalists will be named Nov. 28.