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While UTSA didn't have a player drafted in this year's NFL draft, it was still a great day for the Roadrunners as two of their alumni signed free agent contracts with NFL squads.
Hard-hitting safety Triston Wade will be joining the Seahawks. The 5'11" Jim Thorpe Award semifinalist will look to make an impact on special teams with his ability to cause turnovers. Wade was the first Roadrunner to ever be voted all conference in 2012 and is the program's all-time leader in tackles, pass breakups, interceptions, forced fumbles and fumble recoveries. Hailing from Tyler, Texas, Wade was a nearly unheard of zero-star recruit before he quickly established a reputation for his on-field violence and aggression in the WAC and Conference USA.
Ashaad Mabry will be donning the fleur-de-lis this fall as he joins the New Orleans Saints. Mabry was an institution among the UTSA defensive line during his four years in the program. At 6'3", 315 pounds, Mabry was a mountain in the middle of the Roadrunners' defense. Strong and nimble, Mabry was known for blowing up runs through the middle of the defense while almost always taking on a double team. Check the Vine below to get an idea of what Mabry is capable of. That's two all-conference linemen that he's chucking away like toys.
A major and sincere congratulations goes out to these two men for finishing their college degrees and finding a career in what they love. Outside of Mabry and Wade, I wouldn't be surprised to see offensive guard Cody Harris, kicker Sean Ianno and defensive end Robert Singletary earn invitations to mini-camps or try outs in the following weeks. Best of luck to all of the former Roadrunners fighting for a chance to land on a roster.