Offensive guard C.J. Hanson, a member of the Holy Cross football team from 2019 to 2023, was selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the seventh round of the 2024 NFL Draft with the 248th overall pick.

Hanson is the first Crusader to be drafted since Rob McGovern was selected in 1989. 

Hanson celebrated the news surrounded by family, friends, teammates and coaches in his hometown of Wyckoff, New Jersey.

"It's unbelievable," he said. "It's a testament to the five years I've had at Holy Cross — the people that I've met, the people that have been by my side. I couldn't be happier for the opportunity that I have, and that all my friends and family members have, to be a part of this journey. It's just truly special."

Family. ????@Chiefs | @chris330196 | #GoCrossGo pic.twitter.com/NYlqqE8KwH

— Holy Cross Football (@HCrossFB) April 28, 2024

As a team captain and Stats Perform All-America honoree in 2023, Hanson started at right guard on an offensive line that ranked in the top 10 nationally in rushing offense (third, 264.2 yards per game), total offense (fourth, 466.6 yards per game) and scoring offense (sixth, 36.9 points per game). 

Hanson started in 38 consecutive games at right guard for the Crusaders, who clinched a share of their conference-record fifth consecutive Patriot League title in 2023. Hanson earned two All-Patriot League first team selections, and additionally earned All-ECAC and All-New England honors in his 2023 season. 

Hanson joins a Chiefs team that has played in the Super Bowl in four of the last five seasons.

Don't miss out on your chance to catch the five-time defending Patriot League champion Holy Cross football team in action this fall — season ticket memberships for the 2024 campaign are on sale NOW! To renew or purchase season ticket memberships, fans can visit the Holy Cross ticket website, call or text 1-844-GO-CROSS, or email tickets@holycross.edu.

FOLLOW THE CRUSADERS 
Be sure to follow the Holy Cross football team — and all things Crusader Athletics — on social media!
Twitter - @HCrossFB | @goholycross
Instagram - @hcrossfb | @goholycross
Facebook - Holy Cross Football | Holy Cross Athletics
YouTube - GoHolyCross