University of Houston Athletics
James Adds Bednarik Award Watch List Recognition
8/21/2026 11:00:00 AM | Football
Cornerback added to watch list for top defensive player award
HOUSTON – Houston Football cornerback Will James was named to the Preseason Bednarik Award Watch List on Friday, the award given to the top defensive back at the end of each year.
James is coming off a 2025 season where he earned All-Big 12 Second Team accolades after leading the Cougars with three interceptions, four turnovers gained and two forced fumbles. He has also pulled in Panini Senior Bowl Top 300 and Bronco Nagurski Watch List recognition this preseason.
The Grand Bay, Ala., native earned PFF National Team of the Week and Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week honors following his performance against TCU when he tied his career-high with five tackles, posted a career high two interceptions and forced a fumble.
In his second game as a Cougars, James intercepted a tipped pass for a 37-yard pick-six at Rice to help the Cougars retain the Bayou Bucket.
Entering his second season with Houston, James' 77.8 PFF defense grade ranked third on the team and his eight pass breakups ranked second on the squad.
SINGLE-GAME TICKETS
Don't miss any of the action. Purchase single-game tickets today by clicking here.
SEASON TICKETS
University of Houston Football season tickets are on sale for the 2026 season. For as low as $150, fans can get in on the excitement of Year 3 of the Head Coach Willie Fritz era with pivotal matchups against Oregon State, Southern, UCF, Oklahoma State, Cincinnati and Baylor as the Cougars look to improve on their 10-win season in 2025.
To purchase season tickets, click here. The online seat upgrade process will begin later this year.
SUPPORT YOUR COOGS
Fans can make a direct impact on the success of Houston Football by providing NIL opportunities and by joining The Huddle which provides financial support directly to Houston Football for needs beyond its operating budget.
STAY CONNECTED
Fans can receive updates by following @UHCougarFB on X, formerly known as Twitter, and catch up with the latest news and notes on the team by clicking LIKE on the team's Facebook page at Houston Cougar Football. Fans can also follow the team on Instagram at uhcougarfb.
–– UHCougars.com ––
James is coming off a 2025 season where he earned All-Big 12 Second Team accolades after leading the Cougars with three interceptions, four turnovers gained and two forced fumbles. He has also pulled in Panini Senior Bowl Top 300 and Bronco Nagurski Watch List recognition this preseason.
The Grand Bay, Ala., native earned PFF National Team of the Week and Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week honors following his performance against TCU when he tied his career-high with five tackles, posted a career high two interceptions and forced a fumble.
In his second game as a Cougars, James intercepted a tipped pass for a 37-yard pick-six at Rice to help the Cougars retain the Bayou Bucket.
Entering his second season with Houston, James' 77.8 PFF defense grade ranked third on the team and his eight pass breakups ranked second on the squad.
SINGLE-GAME TICKETS
Don't miss any of the action. Purchase single-game tickets today by clicking here.
SEASON TICKETS
University of Houston Football season tickets are on sale for the 2026 season. For as low as $150, fans can get in on the excitement of Year 3 of the Head Coach Willie Fritz era with pivotal matchups against Oregon State, Southern, UCF, Oklahoma State, Cincinnati and Baylor as the Cougars look to improve on their 10-win season in 2025.
To purchase season tickets, click here. The online seat upgrade process will begin later this year.
SUPPORT YOUR COOGS
Fans can make a direct impact on the success of Houston Football by providing NIL opportunities and by joining The Huddle which provides financial support directly to Houston Football for needs beyond its operating budget.
STAY CONNECTED
Fans can receive updates by following @UHCougarFB on X, formerly known as Twitter, and catch up with the latest news and notes on the team by clicking LIKE on the team's Facebook page at Houston Cougar Football. Fans can also follow the team on Instagram at uhcougarfb.
–– UHCougars.com ––
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