South Carolina sophomore defensive end Jadeveon Clowney is one of five finalists for the 2012 Bronko Nagurski Trophy, awarded to the nation's best defensive football player.

The Charlotte Touchdown Club and the Football Writers Association of America announced the finalists on Thursday. The other finalists are Georgia linebacker Jarvis Jones, Alabama defensive back Dee Milliner, Notre Dame linebacker Manti Te’o and Florida State defensive end Bjoern Werner.

The Bronko Nagurski Trophy will be awarded during the annual Bronko Nagurski Awards Banquet presented by ACN, scheduled for Monday, December 3, at the Westin Hotel in Charlotte.