Matthew Connor Hennessy Bio
Matthew Connor Hennessy is an American professional football center for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Temple Owls. Born on November 17, 1997, in Nyack, New York, Hennessy attended Don Bosco Preparatory High School and was a standout offensive lineman. He was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Hennessy has had an impactful career, featuring notable achievements including being recognized as a Third-team All-American and a First-team All-AAC player in 2019. His versatility and dedication have helped him become a key player in the league.
Early Life and Background
Hennessy was born in Nyack, New York, and grew up in Bardonia, New York. He attended Don Bosco Preparatory High School in Ramsey, New Jersey, where he was a starter at offensive tackle during his junior and senior years. Hennessy was recognized as a 3-star offensive tackle recruit by Rivals.com and chose to play college football at Temple University over offers from several other schools, including Air Force, Army, and Yale.
Path to American Football
Hennessy began his college career at Temple, where he played in three games with one start at left guard as a true freshman before redshirting the rest of the season. He became the Owls’ starting center in his redshirt freshman year, starting all but one game due to injury. His performance earned him a single-digit jersey, a symbol of toughness on the team. Hennessy continued to excel, starting 12 games as a redshirt junior and receiving multiple accolades, including first-team All-American Athletic Conference and recognition as a finalist for the Rimington Trophy. Following his successful college career, he declared for the 2020 NFL Draft.
Matthew Connor Hennessy Career
Early Career (2020-2023)
Hennessy was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft, being the 78th overall pick. He played behind veteran center Alex Mack during his rookie season. In 2021, Hennessy was named the starting center for the Falcons and started every game that season. However, he faced challenges, including a knee injury that placed him on injured reserve in November 2022. He returned to start the final two games of the season at left guard. In 2023, Hennessy suffered another knee injury during training camp, leading to another stint on injured reserve.
Breakthrough (2024-Present)
In March 2024, Hennessy signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles but was released later that year. He returned to the Atlanta Falcons, where he was signed to their practice squad in September 2024. Hennessy was promoted to the active roster in October 2024 but faced further challenges, including being waived and re-signed to the practice squad. On December 26, 2024, he signed a two-year deal with the San Francisco 49ers, marking a new chapter in his career.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Hennessy has been recognized for his contributions on the field, including being named a Third-team All-American and a First-team All-AAC player in 2019. His journey from college football to the NFL showcases his resilience and dedication to the sport.
Matthew Connor Hennessy Award Nominations
Matthew Connor Hennessy has been recognized for his performance on the field, notably receiving accolades such as the Third-team All-American and First-team All-AAC in 2019.
Matthew Connor Hennessy Awards Won
While specific awards won are not detailed, Hennessy’s achievements in college football, including his All-American honors, highlight his skill and impact as a player.
Matthew Connor Hennessy Family
Hennessy’s family includes his older brother, Thomas Hennessy, who is the long snapper for the New York Jets. Growing up, both brothers were fans of the New York Giants.
Personal Life
Details about Matthew Connor Hennessy’s personal life are limited, but his connection with his brother and their shared passion for football are notable aspects of his background.