Kingston Lopa Named Jim Thorpe Award Semifinalist
The California Golden Bears safety is recognized among the nation's top college football defensive backs.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Football
California Golden Bears safety Kingston Lopa has been named a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award. This honor recognizes the top defensive back in college football, with Lopa securing his spot among 15 total players selected.
Why it matters
The recognition highlights Lopa as one of the standout defensive performers in the nation this season. His inclusion reflects his significant statistical contributions to the Golden Bears' defensive effort.
Lopa has recorded five interceptions this season, tying him for the national lead with Kaleb Beasley. He also contributed offensively with an 11-yard reception during the team's game at SMU.
The players
Kingston Lopa
He is a safety for the California Golden Bears football team who has tied for the national lead in interceptions this season.
Jim Thorpe Association
Based in Oklahoma, this organization presents an annual award to recognize the top defensive back in college football.
Kaleb Beasley
He is a college football player who currently shares the national lead in interceptions with Kingston Lopa.
The details
The Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame and Jim Thorpe Association announced the semifinalist list to honor the country's best defensive backs. Lopa has become a central part of the secondary for the California Golden Bears.
Timeline
October 28, 2026: Kingston Lopa is named a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award.
Season Trajectory
This nomination marks a significant milestone for the California Golden Bears, bolstering the program's prestige as Lopa contends for national defensive honors. It elevates his standing within the broader college football landscape as teams push toward the final stages of the season.
Lopa's status as a co-leader in national interceptions provides significant value for fans tracking defensive production metrics and player-based award races. His versatility, demonstrated by his offensive contributions, adds an extra layer to his evaluation for postseason honors.
The takeaway
The semifinalist recognition emphasizes the importance of statistical impact in securing national individual awards in college football. Followers of the Golden Bears can track Lopa's defensive efficiency as the season progresses to see if he advances to the final round.
Further reading
For more on the current season, visit Football.
Source note: This article includes information reported by On3.
