Nebraska safety Nathan Gerry has been recognized for his outstanding play in 2016, being named a semifinalist for the Chuck Bednarik Award.

The 6-2, 220-pound Gerry is one of 18 players named to the semifinal list on Monday. The Bednarik Award is presented annually to the Outstanding Defensive Player of the Year.

Gerry is one of three Big Ten players on the list, joining Michigan linebacker Jabrill Peppers and Iowa cornerback Desmond King. Gerry is one of five defensive backs on the watch list and joins Washington's Bubba Baker as the only safeties on the watch list.

The Sioux Falls, S.D., native is having an outstanding senior year, highlighted by a team-leading four interceptions. Gerry picked off two passes in the fourth quarter at Wisconsin, helping the Huskers rally to force overtime. Gerry has 13 career interceptions, leaving him one shy of the Nebraska career record.

Gerry also ranks second on the team with 50 tackles, including 31 solo stops and seven tackles for loss. His 19 career tackles for loss are a Nebraska record for defensive backs. Overall, Gerry has 249 career tackles, the second-most for a Husker defensive back.

Three finalists for the Bednarik Award will be announced on Nov. 22.