Kory Lichtensteiger (2018) - Hall of Fame - Bowling Green State University Athletics

Kory Lichtensteiger

Induction:
2018

Lichtensteiger, who hails from Van Wert, Ohio, was a two-time First Team All-MAC recipient in four years on the BGSU football team. He was also a 2007 Rimington Award Trophy finalist, awarded to the best center in college football.

Lichtensteiger was a two-time first team all-state player at Crestview High School before moving on to Bowling Green to continue his playing career.

"I'm extremely grateful to the committee for selecting me for this honor," Lichtensteiger said. "Saying thank you could never do justice to my family, teammates, coaches, trainers and BG Football supporters who helped me in my career.

"I look back with more fondness at my time at BG than nine years in pro football. No professional organization could ever compare to the sense of family, of fighting for the pride of your school, for your teammates and brothers, as college football. I am so proud to be an alumnus of Bowling Green State University and a member of the Falcon Football family."

Lichtensteiger impacted BGSU early during his first full season, earning the team's Future Award following his 2003 redshirt season, which is presented to the rookie who shows outstanding scout team effort. The Falcons' 2004 campaign was concluded with a GMAC Bowl victory over Memphis. Following the season, Lichtensteiger was awarded Second-Team All-MAC as a guard as well as being recognized as a Freshman All-American by The Football Writers Association of America (FWAA). In 2005, he was again named Second-Team All-MAC at guard.

Over his final two seasons at BGSU, Lichtensteiger earned First-Team All-MAC in both 2006 and 2007 as a center and also appeared in the 2007 GMAC Bowl. He was a two-time Team Most Valuable Player, as well as two-time Academic All-MAC. To conclude his collegiate career, Lichtensteiger was a finalist for the Rimington Award and a semifinalist for the Draddy Trophy, which is awarded to the Best College Football player, considering academics, community service, and on-field performance.

After the 2007 season, Lichtensteiger entered the NFL Draft and was selected No. 108 overall, in the fourth round, by the Denver Broncos -- the highest BGSU draft pick since 1994. Over his eight-year career, he played for the Broncos and Washington Redskins, starting in 75 games at guard and center.

In 2012, Lichtensteiger was awarded the Ed Block Courage Award, voted on by teammates and presented to the individual who is a role model of inspiration, sportsmanship and courage. He announced his retirement from the NFL in February of 2017.