Joey Hiben Walks On With Football Team

Joey Hiben, a 6-foot-4, 253-pound defensive end originally from Waconia (MN) High, has joined the Minnesota football team. Hiben signed with Notre Dame out of high school after having previously committed to Purdue. He redshirted last year as a member of the Gophers track and field team, but did compete in open competitions. He is currently third on the Gopher depth chart.

Joey Hiben left the Notre Dame team after his freshman season to concentrate full-time on his academic focus in architecture. He played in seven games, mostly on special teams and for a total of 25 minutes. Hiben spent most of the year as the number three tight end on the depth chart behind starter Anthony Fasano and then-backup John Carlson of Litchfield.

Hiben verbally committed to play football for the Boilermakers. However, once he discovered that Purdue doesn't have an architecture program, he retracted his commitment and signed with Notre Dame instead.

Hiben is still working himself into football shape, but with the Gophers' woes on defense, it would not be a surprise to see him get on the field sometime this season. He is no longer listed on the track and field roster and it is uncertain whether he will compete with the team this spring.