Local Football Star Makes History: Former Cornell Player Drafted to NFL

The 2024 NFL Draft has come and gone and I hope your favorite team did well in the draft. If you are a Kansas City fan, you'll be happy to know that a local player has been selected.

Offensive lineman Hunter Nourzad who once played for the Cornell football team has been selected by the Kansas City Chiefs. He was the 159th pick in the fifth round, making him the first player from Cornell to get drafted since 2013.

A Talented  Athlete

Nourzad began his college career at Cornell and earned his engineering degree, he decided to move to Penn State for his final two years of eligibility. He played in 24 games for the Nittany Lions with 21 starts mostly at the center position.

Kansas City Chiefs Recognize Nourzad's Potential

The Kansas City Chiefs won the Super Bowl for the second straight year and look to keep that streak going with fresh talent. They see his potential and think that he can help them win a third straight Super Bowl title

Inspiration for Future Cornell Athletes

Nourzad's selection gives hope to others that don't come from the "big" colleges and his accomplishments also show the  strength of the Cornell football program.

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High Praise from NFL Analysts

NFL analyst Lance Zierlein had great things to say about Nourzad, with his "NFL-caliber core strength, technique, and body control." Standing at 6'3" and weighing 305 pounds, he showed off  his versatility and started games at right tackle and right guard. He moved to center when he transferred to Penn State.

Accolades and Skills

Nourzad earned numerous awards throughout his college career, including First-Team All-Ivy League in 2021 and Honorable Mention All-Big Ten Conference in 2022. In 2023, he was selected as a Second-Team All-Big Ten Conference player after starting in all 13 games at the center position.

Analysis of Nourzad's Performance

NFL analysts also took notice of his performance, highlighting his quick sets against pass-rushers, his punch and anchor, and athletic ability. They also said that his wide base may limit his change of direction quickness in protection, and he will need to improve his feel for sustaining against movement.

Exciting Future Ahead

Nourzad has a promising future ahead of him as he continues to develop with Kansas City. The Chiefs are one of the best run teams in the NFL and they know talent. They see something in Nourzad and under the guidance of the Chiefs' coaching staff, he has a chance to help them to a third straight Super Bowl title.