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.

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.