Western Kentucky University announced on Apr. 30 that five Hilltoppers football players have been selected for the 2026 Kentucky Collegiate All-Commonwealth Team, according to the Kentucky Pro Football Hall of Fame.
The recognition highlights student-athletes who excel both on the field and in academics, while also valuing leadership and dedication. The team includes wide receiver K.D. Hutchinson, quarterback Rodney Tisdale Jr., offensive lineman Karsten Upchurch, and safeties Jaylen Lewis and Dave Herard.
Frank Minnifield, Executive Director of the Kentucky Pro Football Hall of Fame, said, “We’re excited to honor these outstanding young men from the 17 Kentucky colleges and universities that play football. They lead their teams on the field and in the classroom, and they are future leaders in communities across Kentucky and beyond.”
Hutchinson is entering his fifth season with Western Kentucky University after leading his team in receptions last year with 66 catches for 618 yards and three touchdowns. Tisdale started six games at quarterback as a freshman last season, passing for over 1,400 yards with nine touchdowns. Upchurch started at right tackle for most of last season as part of an offense that averaged nearly 30 points per game.
Lewis joined Western Kentucky University from Temple University and started all games last year at safety with notable defensive statistics including three interceptions. Herard became a starting safety early in the previous season and contributed significantly on defense.
The Hilltoppers concluded their previous campaign with a record of nine wins and four losses, including a bowl victory under Head Coach Tyson Helton. The upcoming season is set to begin against Nevada on Sept. 5.
