TCU returner Turpin named to writers’ freshman All-America team

TCU’s KaVontae Turpin, who finished second in the Big 12 in kickoff return average, was named to the Football Writers Association of America Freshman All-America Team on Monday.

Turpin was one of 19 true freshmen named to the honor team by a panel of 10 writers representing each FBS conference. The 5-foot-9, 152-pound player from Monroe, La., was listed as the kickoff return specialist.

Turpin averaged 27.0 yards on 27 kickoff returns in 13 games for the Horned Frogs, second only to Kansas State senior Morgan Burns, who averaged 33.5. On punt returns, Turpin averaged 10.6 yards on 17 chances, including a touchdown return.

Turpin was one of 30 freshmen to play for the Horned Frogs in their 11-2 season. He finished second on the team in touchdown catches and third in catches, providing a spark for the receiving corps.

Four other Big 12 players were honored – Iowa State running back Mike Warren, Texas offensive tackle Connor Williams and linebacker Malik Jefferson and Oklahoma punter Austin Seibert.

Texas A&M receiver Christian Kirk was listed as all-purpose. Offensive lineman Will Noble of Houston was also recognized.

This story was originally published January 11, 2016 at 2:31 PM with the headline "TCU returner Turpin named to writers’ freshman All-America team."