Senior defensive back Jeff Hector's (Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA) stellar year continues, as the University of Redlands football standout signed with the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent on Saturday, April 25.
"Anyone who watched Jeff practice knows that every day was like game day to him. He was relentless in his pursuit of excellence," commented Head Coach Mike Maynard. "We are thrilled for Jeff and wish him continued success as a player in the NFL."
Hector finished the 2019 campaign by leading the NCAA Division III with eight interceptions, 178 interception return yards, and three interceptions ran back for a touchdown. He also ranked second with 0.7 interceptions per game and eighth with 19 passes defended. Furthermore, he recorded 35 tackles, including 27 solo tackles and two tackles for a combined 21-yard loss. In addition, he has broken up 11 passes and forced two fumbles.
Along with being one of the top defensive backs in the nation, Hector also contributed his talents to special teams by registering 13 kick returns for 328 yards.
This Palos Verdes Peninsula High School graduate received a multitude of postseason awards including American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) All-America First-Team, Associated Press First-Team, D3football.com All-West Region First-Team, and D3football.com All-America Honorable Mention honors.
The Bulldogs finished the season ranked No. 22 by the AFCA and No. 18 by D3football.com with a 9-2 overall record and a 6-1 mark in SCIAC. The Southwestern Community College transfer contributed to the team's ninth trip to the NCAA Championships in its Division III history. Defensively, Redlands finished the season among the best of the best in national statistical rankings, including second in turnover margin, third in rushing defense, and 11th for total defense.