Johnson, Osemele Set for Senior Bowl

MOBILE, Ala. -- A pair of Iowa State Cyclone football players will team up together one last time in the 2012 Senior Bowl.  Cornerback Leonard Johnson and offensive lineman Kelechi Osemele have both officially accepted invitations to the senior showcase event Tuesday.  Both players will suit up for the North squad later this month and will be coached by the Minnesota Vikings coaching staff.  The 63rd Senior Bowl is scheduled for 3 p.m. CST on Jan. 28 in Mobile's Ladd-Peebles Stadium.  The game and all practices will be televised live by NFL Network.   

"It's been four years since we've had any Iowa State players in our game and we feel like we've got two outstanding NFL prospects in Leonard and Kelechi," Senior Bowl President and CEO Steve Hale said.  "They've both earned this opportunity and we fully expect them to make the most of it."

Johnson was a second-team All-Big 12 selection this year after posting 72 tackles, one interception and three fumble recoveries for the Cyclones.  The defensive back started all 13 games this year and was a key member of a defensive unit that ranked third in the conference in pass defense, allowing just 234 yards per game.  He leaves Iowa State with 177 total tackles, 19 pass breakups and four interceptions. 

Osemele was a first-team All-Big 12 honoree this season after starting every game at left tackle for the Cyclones.  He finished his career with 44 consecutive starts and was part of an offensive unit that ranked sixth in the conference in rushing offense, averaging 174 yards per game.  

Tickets for the 2012 Senior Bowl are currently available for purchase at the Senior Bowl ticket office (151 Dauphin Street), all area Food For Less locations, select Regions Bank locations, online at www.seniorbowl.com or by calling (251) 432-4109.