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MTSU Sidelines
The Student News Site of Middle Tennessee State University

MTSU Sidelines
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BREAKING: Former MTSU linebacker Parker Hughes selected in NFL Draft

The Jacksonville Jaguars drafted Hughes, a 2025 team captain, in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL draft.
Ephraim Rodenbach, Co-sports editor • April 25, 2026
Ephraim Rodenbach
MTSU linebacker Parker Hughes stares into the distance following a late Austin Peay touchdown in a game against at Floyd Stadium on Aug. 30, 2025.

With the 240th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Jacksonville Jaguars selected former Middle Tennessee inside linebacker Parker Hughes in the seventh round.

The 6-foot-1 Elizabethton, Tennessee, standout was selected in the seventh round and is the first Middle Tennessee player drafted in 2026. Hughes finished the 2026 season with 100 tackles, two interceptions and two pass breakups.

Hughes checked in as the highest-rated inside linebacker out of Conference USA according to The Athletic’s latest NFL Draft guide. The 2025 team captain received Second Team All-CUSA honors.

At MTSU’s Pro Day, Hughes posted a 4.40 40-yard dash time and completed 25 bench press reps. Hughes’ marks would’ve been the best and tied for second-best among linebackers at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine.

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About the Contributor
Ephraim Rodenbach
Ephraim Rodenbach, Co-Sports Editor
I am a junior graduating in fall 2027 with a degree in sports journalism with a double minor in mass communication and sports management. I’m the biggest Diego Pavia fan you’ll ever meet and an extremely passionate Nashville Predators fan. During my free time, I enjoy taking pictures, cooking, working out and hiking!
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BREAKING: Former MTSU linebacker Parker Hughes selected in NFL Draft