LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Pittsburg State University redshirt senior cornerback Rico Payton has been nominated for the 2023 Cliff Harris Award for NCAA Division II football.
 
The Cliff Harris Award is presented to the nation's top defensive player in NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III and the NAIA.

Payton (St. Louis, Mo.) posted 35 tackles (23 solo) on the year with 5.0 tackles-for-loss, four interceptions and 12 pass breakups. He helped the Gorillas lead Division II in interceptions this season with 22. A first-team All-MIAA selection and a D2 All-America selection by the American Football Coaches Association, Payton ranked among the national leaders in passes defended this fall. 
 
The recipient of the 2023 Cliff Harris Award for NCAA Division II will be announced on Dec. 28. Payton is one of 48 NCAA Division II players nominated for consideration for the award.