Michigan State senior announces end of college career

There will be no sixth year of college football for Michigan State tight end Connor Heyward, younger brother of NFL star Cameron Heyward. The senior accepted an invitation to the Reese’s Senior Bowl this weekend and he intends to enter the 2022 NFL Draft.
“It’s an unbelievable opportunity that I can’t pass up on,” Heyward said on Tuesday, “and I don’t think a lot of people would pass up on.”
Heyward, a former running back, switched to the tight end position this season. Even with his 6-foot, 230-pound frame, he’s fourth on the team in receiving yards. He posted 26 catches for 229 yards and a score for the 9-2 squad.
Heyward heading off to NFL Draft
Connor Heyward’s career hasn’t always been smooth at Michigan State. Before Mel Tucker took over the program, he considered entering the transfer portal. However, he stuck it out, changed positions, and is now showcasing next to the other top upperclassmen at the Senior Bowl. Heyward told reporters that he got his invite to the game weeks ago, but it took a little while to decide his next move.
Top 10
- 1New
Ryan Williams
Trolls Auburn, reveals bracket
- 2
Hubert Davis
Responds to UNC controversy, critics
- 3Hot
Gas leak
Texas A&M travel delayed
- 4
Jack Gohlke
UK enemy trolls Wildcats
- 5
Grant Nelson injury
Nate Oats reveals status
Get the On3 Top 10 to your inbox every morning
By clicking "Subscribe to Newsletter", I agree to On3's Privacy Notice, Terms, and use of my personal information described therein.
His position change opened a new door for him to the NFL. He now has the opportunity to follow in his brother’s, and his late father Craig Heyward’s, footsteps.
“It’s a new position and every day I’m still learning,” Heyward said. “I know at the next level I’ll be used a little differently. There will be bigger guys in three-point stance. I really won’t be doing that – if I’m asked of that, great. In the NFL, at that next level, you’ve got to be able to play any position that they want you to play. You have to make plays all over the field and be able do your job and be reliable. I think I’ll be able to do that if I just keep on working on my craft.”
Heyward’s last game in East Lansing is this Saturday versus the Penn State Nittany Lions. The game kicks off at 3:30 p.m. ET, on ABC.