Zach Anderson

The SDSU Jackrabbits had two football players signed to NFL teams after the NFL Draft on April 26 was completed. JaRon Harris and Eric Schroeder were signed by the Packers and Vikings respectively and will get the opportunity to play professional football.

Harris, a wide receiver and Schroeder, a defensive lineman are the next Jackrabbits to get the chance to play in the NFL, they follow in the footsteps of former Jackrabbits Adam Vinatieri, former kicker for Super Bowl winning New England Patriots; Adam Timmerman, who plays for the St. Louis Rams as offensive guard; Steve Heiden, who is a tight end for the Cleveland Browns; Jim Langer, who was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987; and seven others who were drafted into or played pro football.

“Life is about pursuing your dreams,” SDSU head coach John Stiegelmeier said. “It is very rewarding as a program to be part of two student athletes being able to pursue their NFL dream. The whole program is excited for JaRon and Eric.”

Harris led SDSU with 966 yards on 70 receptions and scored 11 touchdowns in 2008, he was named to first-team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference. He will report to Packers’ orientation camp on May 1.

Schroeder was invited to the Minnesota Vikings’ rookie camp this coming weekend in Eden Prairie, Minn. He also drew interest from the Cleveland Browns and Chicago Bears.

Schroeder was limited with injuries in 2008 but still tallied 17 tackles and 2.5 sacks and was named to the second-team all Missouri Valley Football Conference.

Players and coaches have high hopes for the duo that they will make their respective teams.

“My hope is they make the team in some capacity,” Stiegelmeier said. “Once you make the final cut, you have a chance. That in itself is very hard. If given that chance, I am convinced they will do their best.”