- Former University of Maine football stars Jovan Belcher and Andrew Downey signed rookie free agent contracts following last weekend’s NFL Draft. Belcher signed with the Kansas City Chiefs, while Downey inked a deal with the Detroit Lions. Belcher was one of the top players in the FCS (formerly I-AA) division. The defensive end was named the CAA Defensive Player of the Year and was second in voting for the Buck Buchanan Award, given to the top defensive player in the FCS. Downey was a standout linebacker for the Black Bears and was a second-team CAA pick this past season. Both players will participate in the team’s minicamp this spring.
- While Belcher and Downey will be moving on to the pro ranks, most of next year’s squad will take part in the annual Jeff Cole Memorial Scrimmage. The spring game will conclude spring practice tomorrow at 10 a.m.
- Next year’s schedule has finally been released. Jack Cosgrove and UMaine were waiting to fill one more game and did so by agreeing to play D-II St. Cloud State in their home opener. That game will take place on Thursday, Sept. 3 at Alfond Stadium. Other highlights on UMaine’s schedule include games with Syracuse of the FBS (formerly 1-A), Richmond (defending FCS champ), James Madison and New Hampshire.
Tags: Alfond Stadium, Andrew Downey, Detroit Lions, Draft, Football, Free Agent, Jack Cosgrove, James Madison, Jovan Belcher, Kansas City Chiefs, New Hampshire, NFL, Richmond, Rookie, Spring Football, St. Cloud State, Syracuse, UMaine
