RIDERS TO SIGN STAR GRAMBLING DB
By: Sean Isabella
TheNewsStar.com
Former Grambling defensive back Tyree Hollins wants a shot in the NFL, no matter what route he has to take to get there.
He’s on a small detour for now.
Hollins said Saturday he expects to sign a one-year deal with the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the Canadian Football League this week.
Hollins had heard from nearly a half dozen NFL teams leading up to this weekend’s NFL Draft, but he never heard his name called as the seven-round draft wrapped up Saturday. He decided on the CFL when there wasn’t much chatter as a priority free agent, something he had hoped for earlier this week.
“I’m just trusting the plan and trusting what God has in store. If my plan is to play there more than one year, then I’m trusting in it,” Hollins said Saturday. “My whole goal is to get in the National Football League, which I am going to get there.”
Hollins caught the eye of the Roughriders last month during a tryout in Florida. He was later offered a deal, which became a backup plan if the NFL didn’t come calling.
“I went to the minicamp and impressed every coach and the general manager,” Hollins said. “I had a few interceptions and a few pass break ups in the scrimmage.”
The Monroe native had 72 tackles, five interceptions, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery for Grambling last season.
Hollins hopes to show his versatility off up North. The 5-foot-9, 190-pounder played cornerback and safety in college and also excels on special teams. He said he’ll leave for Canada at the end of the month.
“I’m just grateful for the opportunity,” Hollins said. “It’s just about giving hope. The money don’t matter. The money is going to come.
“My whole thing is I get to put on pads again. Not my people get a chance to say that. I love the game with all my heart. I know the rules in Canada are a bit different but I’m willing to adjust and give the CFL everything I’ve got.”
Can't wait to see what the kid can do.
This seems very promising. I hope he does great here then gets his shot down south.
Gambling on Grambling product.
Man oh man, first this signing and then FIVE Import DB's Tuesday!!!! Looks like Chamblin wants a lot of competition this camp
I think his agent forgot something
1 year…. and an option.
Pretty sure only players who have signed a cfl contract previously can sign without an option