Herian Named Semifinalist for John Mackey Award

Lincoln -- Nebraska sophomore tight end Matt Herian has been named one of eight semifinalists for the John Mackey Award, given annually to the nation’s top tight end.

Herian is one of only two sophomores among the semifinalists and is the only Big 12 player to make the semifinal cut. The 6-5, 235-pound Herian leads Nebraska in receiving with 20 receptions for 420 yards and a pair of touchdowns. His 20 catches are the third-most by a Nebraska tight end since 1990, trailing only Johnny Mitchell's position record 31 receptions in 1991, and Tracey Wistrom's 21 catches in 2001.

A native of Pierce, Neb., Herian has a knack for the big play. Of his 29 career receptions, 11 have covered at least 28 yards, including five pass plays of that length this season.

Finalists for the award will be selected on Wednesday, Nov. 26 and the winner will be announced on Tuesday, Dec. 9. The Mackey Award is named in honor of John Mackey, an NFL Hall of Fame tight end for the Baltimore Colts. The Mackey Award selection committee is comprised of national media and outstanding NFL players.

2003 John Mackey Award Semifinalists

Name

Year

School

Chris Cooley

Sr.

Utah State

Matt Herian

So.

Nebraska

Heath Miller

So.

Virginia

Ben Moa

Sr.

Utah

Ben Troupe

Sr.

Florida

Ben Utecht

Sr.

Minnesota

Kris Wilson

Sr.

Pittsburgh

Kellen Winslow II

Jr.

Miami