Football | 5/1/2018 11:44:00 AM

Indianapolis, IN – Former Adams State University Grizzly, Michael Cirino, was recently invited to the Indianapolis Colts' official Rookie Mini-Camp beginning on Thursday, May 10^th. This three-day showcase is typically geared towards acclimating new players to NFL playing schemes; however, also acts as a tryout for undrafted collegiate talent.
 
With the conclusion of the 2018 NFL Draft this past Saturday, April 28^th, Cirino quickly received phone calls from two teams—the Cincinnati Bengals and Indianapolis Colts—looking to invite him to their mini-camps. After considerable thought and discussion with his agent, Cirino decided that, due to his connection with the coaches, respect of the team's culture, new coaching staff, and direction of their franchise, he would further his professional football career with the Colts. 
 
When asked about this opportunity, Cirino stated, "I am extremely excited to get started. My dream of playing in the NFL has pushed me since I was a kid and now I finally have the chance to live out my dreams." He added, "I knew that one day my hard work and dedication would pay off. I am confident in my ability to make plays all over the field from any position—free safety, corner, nickel, and also special teams. I am definitely going to give the Colts everything I have."
 
The Grizzlies have a rich history in the NFL with ten players drafted in the 1960s. Most notably was Don Cockroft who played 13 seasons in the NFL as a punter and placekicker for the Cleveland Browns. He attended the NFL Draft in 1967 and was chosen in Round three as the 55^thpick. Before his retirement in 1980, Cockroft recorded the third most careers points for the Browns behind fellow kickers Phil Dawson and Lou Groza. 
 
In addition, after going unselected in the 2015 NFL Draft, CB Cariel Brooks signed an Undrafted Free Agent Contract with the Arizona Cardinals. He appeared in three NFL games, recording one special teams tackle and an interception for a TD. In August of 2017, Brooks signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, a professional team in the Canadian Football League. 
 
Cirino is one of only a few DII collegiate athletes invited to the Colts mini-camp this summer. He will head to Indianapolis to begin the Rookie Mini-Camp on May 10^th, leaving his current home base of Atlanta, Georgia.