Louisville Football: 2016 Season Awards For The Cardinals

Oct 29, 2016; Charlottesville, VA, USA; Louisville Cardinals wide receiver Jaylen Smith (9) celebrates with Cardinals tight end Cole Hikutini (18) after catching the game-winning touchdown against the Virginia Cavaliers in the fourth quarter at Scott Stadium. The Cardinals won 32-25. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 12, 2016; Louisville, KY, USA; Louisville Cardinals linebacker James Hearns (99) sacks Wake Forest Demon Deacons quarterback John Wolford (10) during the second half at Papa John /

Best Defensive Player | Defensive End | James Hearns

James Hearns was an absolute beast for Todd Grantham this season. Louisville lost one of their best outside linebackers in last season’s Music City Bowl in Trevon Young, therefore they were desperate for someone to step up.

Little did we know that James Hearns would have the best season of any linebacker on the Cards’ roster.

He finished 2016 as the team leader in sacks with 8 and second on the team in tackles for loss with 10.

Let’s hope that Hearns decides to come back to the University of Louisville next season to help continue their pursuit of a National Championship.

Next: Best Offensive Player

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