Three WKU football players receive NFL rookie minicamp invitations

Tyson Helton, Head Coach at Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Men's Football
Tyson Helton, Head Coach at Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Men's Football
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Western Kentucky University announced on Apr. 28 that quarterback Maverick McIvor, wide receiver Matthew Henry, and defensive lineman Jaden Hardy have received invitations to participate in rookie minicamps with National Football League teams.

The three Hilltoppers are set to join different teams for their opportunities: McIvor will attend the Dallas Cowboys’ camp, Henry was invited by the Tennessee Titans, and Hardy will participate with the New York Jets. The announcement highlights a significant achievement for these athletes as they transition from college football to potential professional careers.

McIvor played eight games during his only season at Western Kentucky, starting in seven of them. He recorded 2,062 passing yards and 12 touchdowns with six interceptions and also contributed two rushing touchdowns. His performance earned him multiple honors including CUSA Offensive Player of the Week three times and MVP of the New Orleans Bowl after leading his team to victory over Southern Miss.

Henry started all 13 games at receiver in his lone season with Western Kentucky, leading the team in both receiving yards (888) and receiving touchdowns (six). He was named All-Conference USA Second Team by league coaches and Phil Steele. Prior to joining Western Kentucky, Henry played at Western Illinois where he led his team in receiving stats and earned several conference honors.

Hardy appeared in 12 games on defense during his single season at Western Kentucky after transferring from Grambling State. He finished with 21 tackles, two tackles for loss, half a sack, one pass breakup, and was named to the All-SWAC Second Team while at Grambling State.

Western Kentucky recently completed a successful season under Head Coach Tyson Helton with a record of nine wins and four losses—including a bowl game victory—marking their seventh consecutive bowl appearance.



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