ksdtrojan

Troy has continued a steady climb from FCS (formerly Division 1-AA) to FBS (formerly Division 1-A).  In 2001, Troy enjoyed it first full season as a member of Division 1-A football.  Since that year Troy has steadily increased its success with on the field performances and with draft choices and free agent signings.  We have beaten teams from the SEC and the Big 12 conferences and have held our own against top competition over the last 7 seasons.  Recently with the 2008 NFL Draft Troy saw one of its own players get the call to the next level with the number 11 pick to the Buffalo Bills.  Leodis McKelvin is the second player from Troy to be drafted in the number 11 spot.  The other player is none other than DeMarcus Ware, Pro Bowl Line Backer for the Dallas Cowboys.  Leodis will join the other 5 players who are currently playing in the league:  DeMarcus Ware - Dallas Cowboys, Osi Umenyiora - New York Giants, Lawrence Tynes - New York Giants, Brannon Condren - Indianapolis Colts, and Alfred Malone - Green Bay Packers.  Leodis is not the only Trojan to join an NFL team from the most recent class of graduating Trojans.  Free agent deals have been made between the following players and teams:  Gary Banks - San Diego Chargers, Marcus Richardson - Houston Texans, Chris Bradwell - Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Elbert Mack - Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Marcus Pitman - Kansas City Chiefs.  The Trojans have improved their numbers in the NFL from 5 to 11 with this years class and could add even more with several players receiving invitation to try out for several teams: Josh Allen - New England Patriots, Kenny Cattouse - New England Patriots, and Zarah Yisreal - New Orleans Saints.  Troy could see as many as 14 active players in the NFL in 2008 if things go well.  Success in athletics is determined in several ways with one being how many athletes are sent to the next level to play.  With the NFL's interest in this years graduating class, Troy's success is evident.  Who knows it may not be long before Troy has a Junior depart Troy for early entry to the draft?