Cole Hikutini Bio
Cole Kenna Hikutini is an American professional football tight end born on June 11, 1994, in San Francisco, California. He played college football at the University of Louisville after transferring from Sacramento State and San Francisco City College. Hikutini’s professional career began when he was signed as an undrafted free agent by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017. Over the years, he has played for several NFL teams including the Minnesota Vikings, Dallas Cowboys, and New York Giants, and currently plays for the Michigan Panthers in the USFL.
Early Life and Background
Cole Hikutini attended Pleasant Grove High School in Elk Grove, California, where he excelled as a two-way player. During his senior year, he recorded 27 receptions for 536 yards and six touchdowns, earning second-team All-Delta River League honors as a defensive back. His performance included a standout game against Lincoln High School, where he amassed 143 receiving yards and one touchdown.
After high school, Hikutini accepted a football scholarship from Sacramento State, where he was redshirted in 2012. He made his collegiate debut in 2013, appearing in nine games and starting the last four, registering 21 receptions and five touchdowns. Hikutini later transferred to San Francisco City College in 2014, where he had a productive season with 40 receptions for 658 yards and four touchdowns before moving to the University of Louisville.
Path to American Football
At the University of Louisville, Hikutini continued to develop his skills as a tight end. In his junior year, he played in 11 games, making 19 receptions for 348 yards and three touchdowns. His senior season was particularly notable as he played alongside Heisman Trophy winner Lamar Jackson, leading the team with 50 receptions for 668 yards and eight touchdowns. Unfortunately, his college career ended with a knee injury during the Citrus Bowl against LSU.
Cole Hikutini Career
Early Career (2017)
Cole Hikutini entered the professional football scene when he was signed by the San Francisco 49ers as an undrafted free agent on May 4, 2017. He was initially waived on September 2 but quickly signed to the practice squad the following day. Hikutini was promoted to the active roster on October 14, where he made his NFL debut and recorded his first career reception in a game against the Dallas Cowboys.
Despite his promising start, Hikutini faced challenges with injuries, leading to his placement on the injured reserve list on November 6, 2017. He was waived by the 49ers on September 1, 2018.
Breakthrough (2018-2021)
After leaving the 49ers, Hikutini signed with the Minnesota Vikings’ practice squad on September 3, 2018. He signed a reserve/future contract with the Vikings in January 2019 but was waived later that year. Hikutini then joined the Dallas Cowboys on September 2, 2019, where he had a brief stint, including a reserve/future contract signed on December 30, 2019.
In March 2021, Hikutini signed with the New York Giants, reuniting with offensive coordinator Jason Garrett. However, he was waived/injured in August and subsequently released.
Notable Works and Milestones
Hikutini’s career took a significant turn when he signed with the Michigan Panthers of the United States Football League (USFL) on October 7, 2022. In the 2023 season, he appeared in nine games, starting six, and recorded 21 receptions for 239 yards and five touchdowns. His performance with the Panthers has marked a resurgence in his career, showcasing his skills and resilience as a player.
Cole Hikutini Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Cole Hikutini has received recognition for his performance on the field, notably being named a Second-team All-ACC in 2016 during his college career.
Cole Hikutini Awards Won
Hikutini’s accolades include being named Second-team All-ACC in 2016, highlighting his impact during his college football career. This recognition is a testament to his skills and contributions on the field.
Cole Hikutini Family
Information regarding Cole Hikutini’s family is limited. He has lived in various locations, including San Francisco, Sacramento, Elk Grove, and Wilton.
Personal Life
Cole Hikutini’s personal life remains private, with no publicly available details regarding his marital status or children. He continues to reside in San Francisco, California.