Get To Know: Aaron Hernandez

SI Staff | Nov 22, 2010

Get To Know: Aaron Hernandez

Aaron Hernandez

Damian Strohmeyer/SI

Hernandez was named the Connecticut Gatorade Football Player of the Year during his senior season at Bristol Central High, compiling 1,807 receiving yards and 24 touchdowns. Though he originally committed to play for nearby UConn, he decided to attend Florida in 2007.

Aaron Hernandez

John Biever/SI

After totaling 532 yards in his freshman and sophomore seasons, Hernandez established himself as the premier tight end in the nation during his junior year. He tallied 68 receptions for 850 yards, earning the John Mackey Award for his efforts.

Aaron Hernandez

Bob Rosato/SI

Oklahoma couldn't contain Hernandez during the 2008 BCS National Championship, as he paced the Gators with five catches for 57 yards. He was especially clutch in the fourth quarter, hauling in two passes for first downs in Florida's game-sealing touchdown drive in its 24-14 triumph.

Bill Frakes/SI

Slipping to the 4th round in the draft due to "off-the-field" issues, Hernandez has established himself as a late-round steal so far in 2010. He's the Patriots second-leading receiver with 444 yards through Week 11.

Aaron Hernandez

Lou Capozzola/SI

Hernandez notched his first 100-yard receiving game during Week 2, racking up 101 yards on six catches during New England's 28-14 loss to the Jets. His biggest play came on a 46-yard strike from Tom Brady late in the second quarter.

Aaron Hernandez

John W. McDonough/SI

During a proliferation of pass-catching tight ends in the NFL, Hernandez joins 10 others at his position on pace to finish with over 700 receiving yards. That total would be the most in NFL history, with Hernandez slated to end his rookie campaign with an impressive 710 yards.