Congratulations to Whitefield alumnus Kennard Backman (’11) who earned a coveted spot as a tight end on the Green Bay Packers’ 53-man roster.
During his time at Whitefield, Backman was an honorable mention all-state defensive lineman and had 73 tackles and seven sacks for the WolfPack. In addition to leading the varsity football team as a captain during his junior and senior years, Backman played varsity basketball and ran on the varsity track team. He was also a member of the Whitefield jazz band, and a member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society.
In 2014, Backman was named on the preseason watch list for the John Mackey Award, which is given to the top tight end in FBS college football. After playing four years at the University of Alabama-Birmingham, Backman was the final pick for the Packers’ in the sixth round of the 2015 draft.
“Kennard is absolutely a fine young man. He was a pleasure to coach. As an athlete, he possessed
extraordinary athletic ability. He had a competitive will to compete at the highest level of play, the creative intelligence to excel at the most difficult tasks, and the overall character that’s needed to accomplish amazing feats,” said Tyrone Johnson, who coached Backman in basketball. “Frankly, he is the complete package. Kennard comes from a hardworking, honorable family. I am grateful that God chose him for this special opportunity"
Check out a Kennard Backman news story here.