The NFL Draft this year saw a total of 20 FCS prospects selected across the seven rounds. Of those 20 prospects, nine came from the Missouri Valley Football Conference. While none ended up being Salukis, that didn’t mean teams weren’t interested in former SIU Football members.
Former Saluki wide receiver Landon Lenoir was the first Saluki to pick up an NFL contract, as announced by Saluki Football’s official twitter account. The No. 2 All-Time receiver at SIU is now a member of the Chicago Bears.
The NFL is calling. Congrats @Legendarylando_ on signing a free agent contract with the #Bears. SIU’s No. 2 all-time receiver with 2,615 yards.https://t.co/X1uKmtngRf pic.twitter.com/oYvmEx3CTo
— Saluki Football (@SIU_Football) May 1, 2022
One of the more prolific members of the Saluki secondary in recent years, Qua Brown, was next to become an NFL player. Brown, who is No. 2 in Saluki history for forced fumbles, is now a member of the Kansas City Chiefs.
More NFL dreams came true tonight. Congrats @quabrown_ on signing a free agent contract with the #Chiefs. Finished his career at SIU ranked No. 16 in tackles (283) and No. 2 in forced fumbles (6).https://t.co/JLCJx9zidb pic.twitter.com/ovZ0f0HMGC
— Saluki Football (@SIU_Football) May 1, 2022
The final signing of the weekend came by way of linebacker Bryce Notree. He led the Salukis in tackles last season and is now a member of the New Orleans Saints.
NFL-bound! Congrats @ballaa_b on signing a free agent contract with the #Saints. Bryce Notree led SIU in tackles (91) plus added 4.0 sacks, 7.5 TFL, 2 INTs and 7 QB hurries during incredible senior season.https://t.co/XhTRgRDeKl pic.twitter.com/g4xHQaJnyI
— Saluki Football (@SIU_Football) May 1, 2022