Goodnews: Bengals set to land in a sensetional star and a history maker
LETHBRIDGE, Alberta – A football player from Lethbridge has achieved history.
Tanner McLachlan was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals with the 194th overall choice in the 2024 National Football League (NFL) Draft on Sunday, April 28. Playing football for the Lethbridge Collegiate Institute (LCI) Rams, McLachlan was raised in the city.
Being the first player from Lethbridge to be drafted into the NFL, the 6’5, 244-pound tight end believes it is an enormous honor and motivation.
McLachlan signed to Southern Utah University to play football for the Thunderbirds after his time at LCI ended in 2017. The school hosted McLachlan’s performances from 2018 to 2021.
McLachan, however, faced some hardship in 2021 after rupturing his ACL, requiring surgery in June of that year. McLachlan made a full recovery, returning to the field after his injury.
McLachlan resumed his football career in 2022 by enrolling at the University of Arizona and playing on the team. He had a very successful two seasons with the Wildcats, hauling in 79 receptions for 1,152 yards and eight touchdowns.
With 79 receptions, McLachlan surpassed former NFL great Rob Gronkowski, who he claimed contacted him to congratulate him on being picked, to set a school record for most receptions by a tight end.
Former McLachlan coach David Lowry, who oversees defense for LCI, discussed a few of his strong points.
McLachlan joins a Bengals club that qualified for the postseason the two seasons prior, including a trip to the Super Bowl in February 2022, but missed it this season. He expressed his excitement about joining a dynamic team like Cincinnati, which has a roster full of elite offensive players.
“I’m happy to be living in Ohio, even though I never expected to.” I was thrilled that Joe Burrow would be throwing balls to me as it was the first thought that came to mind.
He went on to say that he is flying to Cincinnati next week to start his time with the organization and that he will work hard to compete for a roster spot straight away.
On Wednesday, May 1, Tanner was honored and received congratulations from LCI for his accomplishment at a ceremony. Highlight reels from LCI and Arizona were screened at the occasion, and autographed pictures were available for viewing. During the event, McLachlan answered questions from the packed gym audience.
McLachlan was selected by the Calgary Stampeders with the 51st overall choice on Tuesday, April 30 in the Canadian Football League (CFL) draft, in addition to the Bengals.
Even though playing in the NFL is McLachlan’s ultimate aim, he expressed his happiness in being selected by the Stampeders.
The young football players in the area who were attempting to follow their aspirations were given some advise by the Lethbridge product. “Shoot for something people would laugh at you for,” he advised. Go for your goals and succeed as much as you can in all facets of your life. Simply put forth your best effort and try your utmost.
On May 13, the Bengals kick off their 2024 rookie football development programs.
