Four Bulldogs Earn NFL Roster Spots
ORANGEBURG, SC (SCSU) – Four players from South Carolina State’s 2015 football squad have earned roster spots on National Football League teams. Bulldog standouts Javon Hargrave (Pittsburgh), Temmarick Hemingway (Los Angeles Rams) and Antonio Hamilton (Oakland Raiders) secured positions on the 53-man roster, while Jalen Simmons (Carolina Panthers) was signed to the practice squad.
Hargrave (6-2, 305), a third-round pick by the Steelers, was the most notable rookie to make an NFL roster. The Bulldog defensive lineman, who earned All-America honors and several other accolades at SC State, had an outstanding preseason for the Steelers and is listed as No. 2 on the depth chart at nose guard.
Hemingway (6-5, 245), an All-America tight end for the Bulldogs and a sixth-round pick by the Rams, was one of the first tight ends taken in this year’s draft . In preseason action, Hemingway had five (5) catches for 70 yards (14.0 yards per catch).
Hamilton (6-0, 185), a Bulldog defensive back and return specialist, was among the top undrafted rookies to claim a roster spot with the Oakland Raiders. The All-MEAC & All-American return specialist’s versatile athletic ability makes him a perfect fit for the Raiders. He saw action in four preseason games for Oakland.
Simmons (5-8, 210), the top running back for the Bulldogs during his career, was also an undrafted free agent who signed with the Carolina Panthers. The All-MEAC running back and Charlotte, NC native saw action in four preseason games for the Panthers.
Other SC State players currently on active rosters in the National Football League include Rafael Bush, DB, Detroit Lions, and Joe Thomas, LB, Green Bay Packers.
Within the past season, South Carolina State has had more players signed to NFL rosters than all HBCU colleges and universities combined.
