USC’s Su’a Cravens, Adoree’ Jackson on Bednarik Award watchlist

USC linebacker Su’a Cravens and cornerback Adoree’ Jackson were named to the watchlist for the Bednarik Award, presented annually to college football’s defensive player of the year.

Cravens, a junior, was a freshman All-American safety in 2013 and was an All-Pac-12 Conference linebacker last season.

Jackson was a Freshman All-American last season. He also returns kicks and plays receiver.

Cravens and Jackson are key players for a defense that must make up for the losses of All-American lineman Leonard Williams and linebacker Hayes Pullard, a four-year starter.

USC opens training camp Aug. 8.

The Trojans play Arkansas State in their opener Sept. 5.