Madalynn Tucker is a Treasure Valley Community College basketball player, but you may want to start paying closer attention because it’s only a matter of time until freshman guard gets more in the spotlight. As it turns out, Tucker is the girlfriend of Leighton Vander Esch, a linebacker from Boise State who was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
Tucker, who was a standout at Salmon River High School in Riggins, Idaho, stands at just 5-foot-5 compared to Vander Esch’s 6-foot-4.
She was in attendance for the 2018 NFL Draft in Arlington, Texas — which just so happens to be the new home of Vander Esch — and was spotted in the green room next to the soon-to-be Dallas Cowboys rookie.
Vander Esch remained in the green room until hearing his name called with the No. 19 overall pick. During his time at Boise State, Vander Esch received first-team All-Mountain West honors and was named the Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year. Prior to signing with the Broncos, Vander Esch also attended Salmon River High School where he excelled in football, basketball, and track. Vander Esch was a quarterback as well as a linebacker during his high school career.
Now, he’s ready to establish himself as one of the best young linebackers in the league.
Check out more photos from Tucker and Vander Esch’s draft night experience below:
The 2018 NFL Draft continues Friday, April 27 and Saturday, April 28 with Rounds 2 through 7.