National Football Foundation

Arguably the greatest student-athlete in the history of Saint Francis University and its first National Scholar-Athlete, wide receiver Luke Palko has tirelessly dedicated himself to his studies while establishing himself as one of the nation's elite on the gridiron.

An Accounting major, Palko became only the third student-athlete in school history to earn ESPN The Magazine First Team Academic All-America honors. Named NEC (Northeast Conference) Football Scholar-Athlete of the Year, he earned a spot on the Division I-AA Athletics Director's Association Academic All-Star Team the NEC Academic Honor Roll twice. 

A starter every game, Palko has amassed over 2,000 career receiving yards and was named as part of the nation's No. 1 wide receiver tandem by The Sports Network in 2006. The brother of Pitt's starting quarterback and fellow 2006 Draddy semifinalist Tyler Palko, Luke entered the year ranked No. 2 in the nation with 217 career receptions - all-time records for both the school and conference. He also takes on punting responsibilities for the Red Flash. 

Highly community-minded, Palko serves as the president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and attended the NCAA National Leadership Conference. A breakfast server at Loretto's St. Michael's Church, he helped generate donations to purchase a new mascot on campus and volunteers his time with the Special Olympics and Relay For Life. Palko is currently the eastern regional scout for the Arizona Cardinals.