Ames, Iowa — AMES, Iowa – Iowa State senior offensive tackle Kelechi Osemele got a text from former Iowa State quarterback Bret Meyer Tuesday.
“It said that I had been selected as an All-American by Sports Illustrated,” Osemele said. “I didn’t believe it but then (fellow teammate) Zach Spears told me it was true. It’s pretty cool. My mom will be happy.”
They were right. Osemele was named to Sports Illustrated’s 2011 All-America first team.
The Houston native was pegged this week as a first-round draft pick by Rob Rang and Chad Reuter of CBSSports.com. Osemele has been a stalwart up front for the Cyclones, starting the last 42 games.
“We’re proud of Kelechi,” Iowa State head coach Paul Rhoads said. “Already at a high level he elevated his play as the season continued. Kelechi is part of a senior class that is leaving a great legacy for those that follow.”
Osemele and his teammates are preparing for the New Era Pinstripe Bowl Dec. 30 in New York, N.Y.
Iowa State linebacker Jake Knott was named as an honorable mention All-American on the Sports Illustrated team.
