Ethan Conner speaks on his senior season, injury recovery

Senior tight end Ethan Conner was off to a strong start in 2024, showing out on the national stage with a six reception, 50-yard performance against Iowa. That was when the injury hit. 

“I was feeling really good about the season last year, and I felt like I was healthy and ready to go,” Conner said. “Then, injuries struck, and I was just trying to stay as positive as I could while trying to rehab and get back on the field. 

Although Conner was able to work back from the injury to play against Georgia Southern – where he reeled in three catches for 47 yards – it was a tough journey. It was just the latest in a string of injuries for the prolific tight end. 

“I was just like ‘man, another injury?’” Conner said. “I feel like God has a timing for everything, but I couldn’t believe there was another injury.” 

Despite the injury, Conner said the team supported him throughout the whole process and made the rehab easier. 

“The [coaches and players] did an amazing job of trying to keep me in the right headspace,” Conner said. “We’re big on family here, and being in a place where you feel like the family is behind you is very important and special.” 

Conner said he’s been able to learn, grow and support his teammates in spite of the injuries. 

“I try to stay positive for the guys around me and do anything to help them out,” Conner said. “Whether that’s going over a game plan or helping the young guys, I try to continue being a voice and being a leader. 

“I’m still here and I’m still involved as a part of this team.” 

For the Columbus, Mississippi, native, staying motivated and positive has been one o the biggest challenges. Conner said he draws his inspiration from his family and from the teammates and staff around him. 

“Family is number one,” Conner said. “My parents, little brother and siblings have inspired me since I was little. 

“Going to work with the guys here and the coaching staff is huge. You don’t have any choice but to want to get better.” 

Throughout it all, Conner has never abandoned his constant desire to improve. After an offseason of work and growth, he still has his eyes set on more. 

“I feel like I’ve grown in areas I was weak in this offseason,” Conner said. “I still have steps to keep taking and keep growing. 

“The job’s never finished. It’s about looking at the small things and trying to see what I can build on.” 

While Conner has NFL aspirations, he said he’s completely locked in on this season. 

“I want to go to the NFL, but right now I’m focusing on this season,” Conner said. “I’m focusing on the guys in this locker room and this coaching staff, and I’ll let God handle the rest. 

“It’s about taking it one day at a time. I’m not worrying about what’s going to happen three or four weeks from now. I’m just worried about the here and now.” 

Finally back on the field, Conner is equipped with his new leadership skills and plenty of energy. He wasted no time making a splash, catching a touchdown in the week one win over Nicholls. 

“I’m really excited for my senior season,” Conner said. “I feel really good and I’m ready to go.”