It was a long wait, but BYU star linebacker Shay Muirbrook is finally getting his shot.
After several frustrating days without any solid offers, Muirbrook agreed to a free-agent deal with the Oakland Raiders this week. On May 1-4, he will attend the team's mini-camp, where he will be out to prove he belongs in the NFL.Running back Mark Atuaia is close to signing with the San Diego Chargers and will travel to mini-camp next week. "It's exciting," he said. "I'll definitely get my chance."
Quarterback Steve Sarkisian, meanwhile, continues to wait for an NFL offer but may have to settle for a tryout in the Canadian Football League. Or he may say goodbye to his football career.
Defensive lineman Henry Bloomfield has been in discussions with the Jacksonville Jaguars for a week, but the club did not invite him to mini-camp. "They said they are highly considering me," said Bloomfield. "They could cut somebody between now and the start of the season and bring me in."
Bloomfield is also considering the CFL. Receiver Kaipo McGuire has already signed with the CFL's B.C. Lions.
While Itula Mili was the only Cougar drafted (by Seattle) last Sunday, six other BYU players have signed free agent contracts: Chad Lewis (Philadelphia), James Dye (Miami), James Johnson (Kansas City), Larry Moore (Seattle), Tim McTyer (Indianapolis) and K.O. Kealaluhi (Phoenix).