Six Former Miners Land Spots on NFL Teams Following Draft

No former Miner football player got the chance to hear their name being called in the NFL Draft, but six of them have been picked up by different NFL teams following the draft.

Most of these are free agent signings or football camp invitations, but each player will have the opportunity to play at the next level.

UTEP-NFL signings:

Nik Needham (CB) - Miami Dolphins

Despite not being drafted, UTEP cornerback Nik Needham signed a deal to play with the Miami Dolphins. Along with Needham, the Dolphins picked up two other undrafted free agent corners. Needham finished his UTEP career with 212 tackles, three interceptions and 33 pass breakups (best in school history).

Winston Dimel (FB) - Seattle Seahawks 

Following the draft, the Seahawks picked up Winston Dimel, who will be the lone fullback on the team's roster. Prior to UTEP, Dimel was regarded as the top fullback prospect in the country and was named 2017 All-Big 12 second team, and 2016 and 2015 All-Big 12 first team at Kansas State, where he finished with 22 career rushing touchdowns.

Kahani Smith (DB) - Seattle Seahawks 

Former defensive back Kahani Smith will join Dimel at Seatle after getting a camp invite, which should give him a perfect shot at competing for a spot. He finished his career at UTEP having racked up 126 total tackles, 15 pass breakups and two interceptions in his two seasons.

David Lucero (TE) - Oakland Raiders

The Oakland Raiders snagged MIners tight end David Lucero and will give him a shot with a rookie camp invite. Lucero played 20 games for the Miners in two seasons and totaled 37 receptions, 451 receiving yards and three touchdowns. His 6-foot-5 frame gives him that added desirable NFL size.

Kalon Beverly (DB) - Buffalo Bills 

Defensive back Kalon Beverly will head to the Bills to try and earn his spot with the organization. He totaled 24 pass breakups, four interceptions and racked up 172 total tackles. His superb athleticism is what will set him apart with the competition at the NFL level.

Jerrod Brooks (OL) - Kansas City Chiefs

Earning a rookie camp for Jerrod Brooks seems fitting as he was a key contributor on the line for the Miners. He played in 37 games for the Miners through his career and at 6-foot-6, 312-pounds, Brooks has all the physical attributes of offensive linemen in the NFL.