HAMMOND – Former Southeastern Louisiana offensive tackle Kevin Hughes became the first Lion in school history to be invited to the NFL Scouting Combine when he was selected to participate at the league's annual event that begins Feb. 23 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind.

Hughes, a New Orleans native and Karr High product, will participate in the combine from Feb. 23-26.

“We're extremely proud of Kevin and how hard he has worked, he deserves to have this opportunity,” Southeastern head coach Mike Lucas said. “It's great for our program with Kevin being the first player since we've returned football to go to the NFL Combine. He's also playing in the Texas vs. the Nation All-Star game and I know he will represent Southeastern very well.”

The invitation to the NFL Combine highlights a busy off-season for the four-year letterwinner, who is also scheduled to play in the NFL Players Association Game at San Antonio's Alamodome on Feb. 5.

Hughes, who finished his career last season for the Lions, started 35 consecutive games including 22 at left tackle. The 6-foot-5 Hughes earned second-team All-Southland Conference and All-Louisiana honors in 2010 after grading at 80 percent or better in nine of 11 games for Southeastern. He had 47 knockdowns while allowing two sacks in 434 passing attempts on the season.