April 24, 2010
LEXINGTON, Ky. – Kentucky cornerback Trevard Lindley and fullback John Conner will be headed north in order to fulfill their goal of playing in the National Football League.
Lindley was chosen by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fourth round, the 105th overall pick, and Conner was tabbed by the New York Jets in the fifth round, 139th overall, as the NFL Draft wrapped up Saturday.
Lindley and Conner join defensive tackle Corey Peters (third round, Atlanta) as UK’s selections in the draft. Additional Wildcats are expected to sign as free agents. A total of 17 Kentucky players have signed NFL contracts over the past two seasons.
Lindley was a four-year starter for the Wildcats, totaling 189 tackles, 10 interceptions and a school-record 43 pass breakups during his career. Game-changing plays were the hallmark of his days as a Wildcat, as seven of his 10 interceptions were key plays in Kentucky victories and another pick helped send a game to overtime. He scored three touchdowns in his career – a 66-yard fumble return at Arkansas (2007) and interception returns for TDs against South Carolina (2008) and Miami of Ohio (2009).
Lindley earned accolades every season of his career, including first-team Freshman All-America in 2006, third-team Sophomore All-America in 2007, third-team All-America and consensus first-team All-Southeastern Conference as a junior and second-team All-SEC as a senior. Lindley was named the nation’s best cornerback prior to his senior season by Lindy’s college football magazine, but a high-ankle sprain derailed his final campaign, forcing him to miss four games and playing his last five at less than full speed.
Lindley has completed his degree in art studio. Born in Lithia Springs, Ga., he came to UK from Hiram (Ga.) High School.
Conner has been the team’s starting fullback since his sophomore season. Primarily used as a blocker, Conner developed a reputation as a devastating negater of defenders and outstanding special teams performer. He was named the SEC’s “Best Blocking Back” in the Birmingham News prior to his senior season.
Conner also was quite effective when called upon to run or catch the ball. During his career he rushed 54 times for 247 yards and four touchdowns. His average of 4.6 yards per carry is an excellent figure for a fullback. He caught 25 passes for 147 yards, an 8.1 average, and four TDs as a Wildcat.
Conner, a native of Cincinnati, Ohio, completed his UK degree in kinesiology.
