Larry English Named To Hendricks Award List

DeKALB, Ill. – Northern Illinois’ Larry English (Aurora, Ill./Marmion Academy) is one of 36 players on the pre-season watch list for the 2008 Ted Hendricks Award presented to the nation’s top defensive end. The senior enters the season in second-place on the Huskies’ career sack list.

English, the Mid-American Conference’s 2007 Vern Smith Leadership Award (league MVP), was on the Hendricks Award Midseason Watch List, Rotary Lombardi Award Watch List and the Bronko Nagurski Trophy Watch List last season.

As a junior, English recorded an NCAA-best five-sack performance at Idaho and earned FWAA/Bronko Nagurski Defensive Player of the Week and MAC West Defensive Player of the Week accolades for his effort. His 10.5 season sacks led the MAC and he tied for 11th nationally with a 0.88 sacks per game average. In addition, English racked up 17 TFLs and ranked 18th nationally with 1.42 per game.

English enters the 2008 season needing 7.5 sacks to become NIU’s career leader. His 23.5 career sacks ranks second and his 40 TFLs are tied for fifth all-time.

On-field performance, exceptional winning attitude, leadership abilities, contributions to school and community and academic preparedness are some of the criteria used to determine the Hendricks Award winner. Members of the national media, head coaches, professional scouts and former winners are included in the award’s voting committee.

The Final Mid-Season Watch List is issued in November and the award winner will be announced on December 10.

The Huskies begin fall practice on August 4 and kick off the season August 30 at Minnesota.