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Friday, May 04, 2007

Alama-Francis 'special,' says Glanville

Alama-Francis 'special,' says Glanville

Defensive end will make quick transition to the Lions, coach figures; first practice is today.

Mike O'Hara / The Detroit News

Jerry Glanville, the former NFL head coach, defensive assistant and network analyst, was surprised when the Lions drafted defensive end Ikaika Alama-Francis of Hawaii in the second round.

Glanville thought Alama-Francis would be drafted higher.

Glanville, hired earlier this year as head coach by Portland State, was Hawaii's defensive coordinator the last two years and coached Alama-Francis. Glanville doesn't think Alama-Francis will need much time to make the transition from college to the NFL.

"He's a special person and a special player," Glanville said in a telephone interview from Portland Thursday. "He's all-out hustle and all-out effort.

"Everything he does is just the way you want it."

The Lions' coaching staff will get its first look at Alama-Francis as a pro today, with the first two practices in a three-day mini-camp for rookies. There are double sessions today and Saturday and one Sunday morning. Workouts will be without pads.

Alama-Francis is not well known by most college football fans, which is common for players from Hawaii. They don't get much exposure in the continental U.S.

He was a basketball player and did not play football in high school on Oahu. He was a walk-on at Hawaii. Alama-Francis started one game his first two seasons and was a full-time starter in 2005-06.

He had 10 sacks and 18.5 tackles for loss in his last two seasons. The greatest asset for Alama-Francis, who is 6-foot-5, 280 pounds, is his quickness and agility, which come from his basketball background.

Glanville, who lived in Detroit and played and coached at Northern Michigan, started his 20-season NFL career as an assistant with the Lions in 1984. He had two stints as a head coach -- with the Houston Oilers (1986-89) and Atlanta Falcons (1990-93). He also was defensive coordinator of both teams.

He was in touch with some other NFL teams on the first day of the draft and expected Alama-Francis to be drafted before the Lions got him with the 26th pick of the second round. It was the second of the Lions' three second-round picks.

"I was kind of surprised he didn't end up with a couple other teams," Glanville said. "He wouldn't have lasted through the second round. A lot of NFL teams called me. If he didn't go to Detroit, he wouldn't have been there much longer.

"He's a total football player. He hasn't been blocked yet."

Thursday, May 03, 2007

Zeb Togiai (Desert Vista, Phoenix, AZ)

May 3, 2007
B.G. Rhule
One of the more noticeable linemen at a recent combine in L.A. this past weekend was 6-foot-3, 260-pound Phoenix (Ariz.) Desert Vista offensive line/defensive line Zeb Togiai.

Zeb Togiai having impressive spring.
Utilizing his muscular frame, Togiai employs deftness of footwork and quick hands against opponents, and it is easy to see why he is one of the highly sought after lineman from the Grand Canyon State.

No small wonder, too, that Bruin Defensive Coordinator DeWayne Walker has shown increasing interest in the young man.

Last season Togiai racked up 32 tackles as a junior, and did an equally impressive job manning the offensive line, not allowing a quarterback sack. His coaches describe him as "hard-working, and driven to continuously improve."

Bruinblitz.com asked him how his time at the combine went.

"Very well," Togiai said. "I really enjoyed the combine and my time spent in L.A."
Has he heard from the UCLA coaches recently?

"Yes, they are about to get my transcripts and tape. I am anxious for them to see what I can do. UCLA is a great school with good football and academics."

What is Togiai looking for in a college that will influence his choice?

"Most importantly, how many athletes they graduate, and then the school's football tradition and overall program."

Togiai was hand-timed at 5.0 in the forty, which generally translates to a 5.2, making him rather swift for his size. He showed good movement in the big man competition against some top-caliber talent and humbly states that he "continues to work and to learn."

Togiai has been busy in the weight room, as well as conditioning in the off-season. He bench presses 320 lbs. and squats 4 05.

Recently, Togiai visited Stanford's junior day, and the Cardinal, under new head coach Jim Harbaugh continue to show interest. His father tells Bruinblitz.com that his son has offers from Arizona and Arizona State, and they are expecting a formal offer from Colorado imminently.

UCLA, and Oregon State are beginning to attract the young man's attention as well.

Monday, April 30, 2007

3 picks hail from Polynesian Triangle

By Harvey Fialkov
South Florida Sun-Sentinel

April 30, 2007

DAVIE · The previous Dolphins regime favored Southeastern Conference teams for filling its drafting needs such as recent picks Jason Allen (Tennessee), Ronnie Brown (Auburn), Channing Crowder (Florida) and Travis Daniels (LSU).

Farewell SEC, Aloha WAC via the Hawaiian-Samoan pipeline.

Dolphins coach Cam Cameron and General Manager Randy Mueller plucked three of their 10 draft picks from the Polynesian Triangle, including two distant cousins from the University of Hawaii -- 311-pound center/guard Samson Satele in the second round and mammoth fullback Reagan Mauia in the sixth -- in hopes of adding power and bulk to the offense.

They also drafted 6-foot-4, 334-pound Pago Pago native Paul Soliai, an American Samoan from the University of Utah, in the fourth round to compete with second-year defensive tackle Fred Evans for playing time behind nose tackle Keith Traylor, 37.

"We found out that Hawaii does produce some good players and they like playing," Mueller said after a draft which included five players from UH, a program that has 10 players already on NFL rosters. "They're very close and as you know their culture is one of passion and caring ... and those are good team-building identities that we want."

Mueller's Hawaiian connections go back more than 20 years with Warriors coach June Jones, as well as assistant coaches Mouse Davis and Wes Suan, who coached Mueller at Linfield College (Oregon) in the early '80s.

"I'm excited for the Dolphins because they got two good football players and great kids, just what they're looking for," said Jones, who coached the Falcons from 1994-96. "Of all the players I've ever coached, and that includes [Pro Bowl fullback] Craig ``Ironhead'' Heyward, Reagan is the most physical and best football player.

"Samson is a powerful pass pass protector and run blocker, and I put him in the same category as [Pro Bowl center Olin Kreutz] on the Bears."

The 6-foot, 272-pound Mauia, named for late President Ronald Reagan, and the long-haired Satele, named for biblical strong man Samson, are related on their grandmother's side. They formed a one-two punch in the Warriors' run-and-shoot offense in 2006, which led the nation in total offense on the way to an 11-3 season.

"That's what I was known for, to be able to block very well," said Mauia, a converted defensive tackle who has dropped nearly 100 pounds during the past two seasons. "[Samson's] going to be awesome, just like we did it here in Hawaii, great blocking and just connecting really well with the O-Line."

Jones said he'd be surprised if Satele isn't starting his rookie season like former Hawaii product Vince Manuwai did with the Jaguars in 2003.

"When Samson gets on the field he gets that look in his eye, and you don't want to be across from him," Jones said.

Harvey Fialkov can be reached at hfialkov@sun-sentinel.com.

Copyright © 2007, South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Sunday, April 29, 2007

Nate Ilaoa selected in 7th Rd by Philadelphia Eagles

7th Rd. (236th): RB Nate Ilaoa, Hawaii

April 29, 2007

OVERVIEW
Known as "Nasti" by his teammates, Ilaoa's (pronounced ee-LAW-wuh) physical running style inside the red zone and ability to perform as a capable short area receiver could see him shift to fullback at the pro level. Many scouts liken his low center of gravity and pad level to that of former Dallas Cowboys great, Emmitt Smith. Despite his "cannonball" physique, he has excellent cutback ability and change of direction agility.

Born in Oakland, California, the talented athlete spent his prep days at North Stafford High School in Virginia. He lettered three times in football, competing at both halfback and wide receiver as a junior and as a split end during his junior campaign. He was named Washington Post Metro Player of the Year and Commonwealth District Player of the Year as a senior. Nate was also a two-time All-League, All-State, All-Region, All-Area, and first-team All-District pick. He amassed 890 yards receiving and 1,200 yards rushing while registering 25 touchdowns in 2000. As a junior, he gained 1,300 yards receiving while scoring ten times.

With his father a career military man, the family moved to Hawaii from Virginia and Ilaoa enrolled at Hawaii in 2001, spending the season on the scout team. Nate was bothered most of the 2002 season with a shoulder injury that forced him to miss two games. He started eight of twelve contests as a receiver, lining up in the "H" position for four games and at the "Y" position for four others. He gained 56 yards with a score on six carries (9.3 avg) and ranked fifth on the squad with 46 receptions for 532 yards (11.6 avg) and three touchdowns, finishing with 588 all-purpose yards.

A knee injury in the 2004 season opener vs. Appalachian State would force Nate to miss the rest of that campaign as a medical hardship. When he failed to recover in time for the 2004 season, Ilaoa was forced to miss the entire season.

He returned to the gridiron as a halfback in 2005. Nate started seven of eleven games, leading the team with 85 attempts for 643 yards (7.6 avg) and six touchdowns. He grabbed 36 passes for 274 yards (7.6 avgv) and a score, as he totaled 917 all-purpose yards. Ilaoa was granted a sixth year of eligibility in 2006 and made the most of that opportunity. He earned All-Western Athletic Conference first-team honors, as he ranked second in the WAC in scoring (9.0 ppg) and finished twelfth in the nation with an average of 139.5 all-purpose yards per game. He led the team with a career-high 990 yards and thirteen touch-downs on 131 carries (7.6 avg). He ranked third on the squad and fifth in the conference with 67 receptions for 837 yards (12.5 avg), including five scores. He totaled 108 points and 1,827 all-purpose yards, sharing team Offensive Warrior Club Award honors with QB Colt Brennan.

In 37 games at Hawaii, Nate started 27 times, including eighteen contests at halfback. He rushed 222 times for 1,689 yards (7.6 avg) and twenty touchdowns. He made 151 catches for 1,694 yards (11.2 avg) and nine scores. Ilaoa posted three solo tackles and 174 points while gaining 3,383 all-purpose yards, an average of 91.43 yards per game.


Vitals/Links
College: Hawaii
Height: 5-9, Weight: 245

CAREER NOTES
Nate holds the school career-records for running backs with 151 receptions for 1,694 yards, topping the previous marks of 73 catches for 895 yards by Gary Allen (1978-81) ... His 1,689 yards rushing rank tenth in Hawaii annals ... His twenty touchdown runs tied him with Glenn Frietas (1993-96) for fifth on the school's all-time record list behind Michael Carter (39, 1990-93), Jamal Farmer (31, 1988-91), Heikoti Fakava (31, 1985-88) and Larry Sherrer (26, 1969-71) ... Ilaoa's 3,383 all-purpose yardsrank fourth in school history, surpassed only by Chad Owens (5,461 yards, 2001-04), Gary Allen (4,558 yards) and Jeff Snyder (4,137 yards, 1989-91) ... Nate's 67 receptions for 837 yards in 2006 broke the school season-records for running backs, topping the old marks of 42 catches for 435 yards by Charles Tharp in 1997 ... His 1,827 all-purpose yards in 2006 rank third in school history behind Chad Owens (1,866 in 2004) and Jeff Snyder (1,958 in 1990).

2006 SEASON
All-Western Athletic Conference first-team selection ... Shared team Offensive Warrior Club Award honors with QB Colt Brennan ... Super Sleeper Team pick by The NFL Draft Report ... Earned WAC Player of the Week accolades vs. Nevada-Las Vegas ... Started eleven of thirteen games, missing the Louisiana Tech clash after injuring his ankle vs. Utah State ... Still managed to lead the team and rank fifth in the WAC with an average of 74.42 yards per game rushing ... Ranked 29th nationally and fifth in the league with an average of 5.25 receptions per game ... His average of 9.0 points scored per game was second-best in the conference and ranked ninth in the nation ... Ranked twelfth in the NCAA Division 1-A ranks with an average of 139.5 all-purpose yards per game ... Led the team with a career-high 990 yards and thirteen touchdowns on 131 carries (7.6 avg) ... Was third on the squad with a school season-record (for running backs) 67 receptions for 837 Yards (12.5 avg) and five scores ... Recorded one solo tackle and amassed 1,827 all-purpose yards, the third-best season total in school history ... Ran for over 100 yards vs. Nevada-Las Vegas, Nevada, San Jose State and Purdue, adding a 100-yard receiving performance in the Utah State clash.

2005 SEASON
Appeared in eleven games, starting seven contests at halfback ... Sat out the New Mexico State clash after injuring his big toe vs. Louisiana Tech ... Led the team with 643 yards and six touchdowns on 85 carries (7.6 avg) ... Caught 36 passes for 274 yards (7.6 avg) and one score ... Made one solo tackle and registered 42 points ... Amassed 917 all-purpose yards ... Ran for over 100 yards vs. San Diego State in the season finale.

2004 SEASON
Sat out the year.

2003 SEASON
Granted a medical hardship waiver.

2002 SEASON
Played in twelve games, starting four contests at "H" receiver and four more at the "Y" receiver position ... Finished fifth on the team with 46 receptions for 532 yards (11.6 avg) and three touchdowns ... Rushed six times for 56 yards (9.3 avg) and one score ... Added one solo tackle, as he amassed 588 all-purpose yards ...

2001 SEASON
Redshirted as a freshman.

CAMPUS AGILITY TESTS
4.66 in the 40-yard dash ... 405-pound bench press ... 505-pound squat ... 286-pound power clean ... 31.5-inch vertical jump ... 29 ¾-inch arm length ... 9-inch hands ... Right-handed ... Wears contacts ... 22/30 Wonderlic score.

COMBINE AGILITY TESTS
4.84 in the 40-yard dash ... 1.68 10-yard dash ... 2.81 20-yard dash ... 4.42 20-yard shuttle ... 11.78 60-yard shuttle ... 7.10 three-cone drill ... Bench pressed 225 pounds 25 times. 30 Inch Vertical ... 8.07 Broad Jump.

HIGH SCHOOL
Attended North Stafford (Va.) High School, playing football for head coach Chris Beatty ... Lettered three times in football, competing at both halfback and wide receiver as a junior and as a split end during his junior campaign ... Named Washington Post Metro Player of the Year and Commonwealth District Player of the Year as a senior ... Two-time All-League, All-State, All-Region, All-Area, and first-team All-District pick ... Amassed 890 yards receiving and 1,200 yards rushing while registering 25 touchdowns in 2000 ... As a junior, he gained 1,300 yards receiving while scoring ten times.

PERSONAL
History major ... Son of Vaisa and Filipo Ilaoa ... Born 4/04/83 in Oakland, California ... Resides in Kailua, O'ahu, Hawaii.

Cleveland Browns select Melila Purcell in 6th Rd

Browns pick DL Melila Purcell

Jeff Walcoff, Staff Writer

04.29.2007

The Browns have selected defensive lineman Melila Purcell in the sixth round (200th overall) at the 2007 NFL Draft.

Purcell was a three-year starter along the Hawaii defensive line, marking 208 tackles with 36.5 tackles for loss and 20 sacks during his career. At 6-feet-5 and 269 pounds, he'll likely compete for a job along the team's defensive line.

Purcell was born and attended school in American Samoa and is cousins with 2007 second-round pick center Samson Satele of Hawaii.

Cincinnati Bengals 6th Rd Pick Matt Toeaina

2007 NFL DRAFT
Sunday, April 29, 2007
at Paul Brown Stadium


Cincinnati Bengals
news conference transcripts


ROUND 6


MARVIN LEWIS
Head coach

Initial comments...

“Matt Toeaina went to Oregon as a fullback, so he is a really good athlete. Although most of his time has been at defensive tackle,
he has slid out and played some defensive end due to injuries. Even when do their three-man front, he was an outside end pass
rusher. He’s a big man at 6-foot-2, 300-plus pounds. He’s a good athlete who’s played a lot of football at Oregon. It fits us in a good
need. He is a good young prospect and a guy we can shape, mold and coach into a top defensive lineman.”

Did he grow up with Domata Peko?

“He grew up on Samoa, but I’m not sure if he knows (Bengals defensive tackle) Domata (Peko).”

Where does he fit in?

“He will compete for a roster spot at defensive tackle. Even though he has played some defensive end, we drafted him to line up at
defensive tackle.”

You seem to be building some depth at that position…

“Just like last year, this guy is very similar to Domata, as far as the athleticism and being able to move his feet and bend his knees.
That’s the exciting part of it.”

Since they brought him in as a fullback, he must be pretty light on his feet and able to move pretty well…

“That was probably 60 pounds ago. He kept maturing as a kid. He has already graduated with a degree from the University of
Oregon. He has a lot of upside to him.”

Is he a leveraging machine?

“Well, at 6-foot-2, you don’t have that low center of gravity. He’s a good prospect and one that we were excited to pick.”

What does he need to work on?

“I think he just needs to learn the game at this level. We talked about it earlier with (first round pick) Leon Hall. You don’t see as
much diversity in the NFL. They see a lot of the spread offense in college. You don’t see as many pounding offenses in college football,
and that’s the biggest thing. He’s able to separate from blocks. That’s why you want a guy who can bend his knees and be an athlete,
like Matt, so he can finish the play. If they can capture you with one guy, then they can cut the defense in half, and then we haveissues.”

JAY HAYES
Defensive line coach

Another America-Samoan connection?

“Yeah, it’s where he grew up. These guys traditionally like to be together. (Bengals defensive linemen) Domata (Peko) and
Jonathan (Fanene) played against one another in high school, along with Matt. It’s a small island.”

One more to complete the line?

“Not that I know of, but you never know.”

What was it that stood out about him?

“Just how athletic he was. He could play inside or out. He played end for them last year. He’s by no means a finished product. He
has good size and he can run. He is very intelligent. It adds to the whole package. I know some of the coaches at Oregon, and they
speak very highly of this young man.”

I don’t know if this is a fair comparison, but after Bengals DE Jonathan Fanene’s production last season, did it have anything
to do with you drafting Matt?

“It had none.”

How are Peko and Toeaina similar?

“Peko is a little bigger and heavier than Matt. Matt is probably a step faster. Domata has played and has been very productive.
This young man will come in and try to earn a spot on our roster. The guys we have are established. Matt is going to have to come in
and do a very good job for us in order to be part of our equation.”

Matt has good versatility? He can play inside or out?

“I think so. One of the things I watched him do on film in our evaluation was run step-for-step with Adrian Peterson from Oklahoma
and make a tackle from the left end position on a cutback for a negative-yardage play. That showed how athletic he was. For a guy
300-plus pounds to do that to someone who was a Heisman candidate at the time speaks well of him. There are things he will need to
improve on. I think he needs to lower his pad level. I think that translates to the fact he wasn’t a defensive lineman for a great deal of


his career. The upside on him is his ability to improve.”

When did he make the change from fullback to defensive tackle?

“I don’t think it was very long (playing fullback). He got on campus, and they made the switch pretty quick. He’s very excited. He
told me his father came from Samoa to be with him. His father is a minister and his mother is a school administrator. Sounds like a very
solid background.”

Where did he grow up?

“America-Samoa. Very articulate young man.”

MATT TOEAINA
Defensive tackle, Oregon

Do you know Bengals defensive linemen Domata Peko and Jonathan Fanene?

“I went to school with both Domata and Jonathan as a freshman.”

You’ve got to pleased that you’re coming here with your friends...

“Oh yeah, definitely. I think it will make me more comfortable in situations. I’m just glad to be a part of the program now.”

What do you hope to show us on Sundays this fall?

“I worked hard to get to this point. I just want to do what I can to the best to my abilities and show you that I am a legit pick.”

You originally went to Oregon as a fullback. Is that correct?

“Yeah, coming from the island, I came in only weighing in at 245. I gained weight fast, and they formed me into a defensive
lineman.”

What did you eat to gain all of that weight?

“I don’t know. I think the dollar menu across the street from the dormitory didn’t help.”

The dollar menu?

“At McDonald’s.”

They have a nutritionist here who will break you of that habit...

“I already broke the habit. It was just coming from a small island — eating a big juicy burger — we didn’t have that there.”

Are you going to wear your sarong in the locker room?

“Why not? You know it’s the most comfortable piece of clothing that I have.”

It sounds like you’re versatile, like you can play tackle and end...

“Definitely, because I was under 300 pounds, and I gradually gained a lot of weight. I couldn’t play D-tackle at 260, so I started out
at D-end and eventually grew into a D-tackle body. But I still had the instincts of playing defensive end. I think that was very beneficial
for me at the University of Oregon.”

Do you remember the play where you chased down Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson?

“Yeah. I think that’s what it’s all about — never giving up. That’s the attitude that you’ve got to have, and I think that’s the
difference between good and great players.”

Do you remember any specifics about that one play in particular?

“Yeah. I was at defensive end. I think he rushed up the middle and I quickly engaged off of my man and just pursued him and
made the tackle.”

How do you get here from Samoa?

“It’s about a five-hour flight from Samoa to Hawaii, and another five-hour flight from Hawaii to the main land.

Miami Dolphins Profile 6th Rd Pick: Reagan Mauia

REAGAN MAUIA

April 29, 2007

Position: RB
HT/WT 6-0 / 270 lbs.
Hometown: Stockton, California



* Listen to Reagan Mauia's conference call with the South Florida media 300k and 56k




2006 (Senior):
Played in 12 games with four starts...Rushed for 156 yards on 31 carries (4.9 avg.) with two touchdowns and a long of 22 yards...Added ten receptions for 109 with one touchdowns and a long of 29 yards.

2005 (Junior):
Played in seven games, making one start on defense at Michigan State (Sept. 10)...began the season on the defensive line and moved to running back towards end of season...made one tackle...rushed 12 times for 59 yards...scored lone touchdown against San Diego State (Dec. 3).

Prior to UH:
Attended San Joaquin Delta College from 2002-04...redshirted the 2003 season...lettered in football and track...earned all-conference honors his sophomore season...team went undefeated, winning the conference title in 2002...defeated Butte (Calif.) College in the 2004 Tri Counties Holiday Bowl...a scholar-athlete.

Prep:
A 2002 graduate of Tokay High School in Lodi, Calif...lettered four years in both football and track...was an all-league and all-area selection...broke the school's sack mark with 18 his senior season...broke the school's shot put record with a toss of 52'8".

Personal:
Born July 6, 1984, in American Samoa...majoring in family resources...has three brothers and two sisters...parents are Tagi`ifo and Pili Mauia of Stockton, Calif.

Cameron Stephenson Comments to Pittsburgh Media

Cameron Stephenson

Guard-Rutgers

5th Round — 156th Overall

When did you come to the U.S.?

When I was eight when we moved over here to L.A.

When did you start playing football?

My first year was in high school, freshman year.

How was the move to defense? What made you do that after playing on the offensive line?

Coach [Greg] Schiano asked if we needed help on the d-line. I just wanted to do whatever I could to help out the team. So I just moved over.

You made a big fumble recovery against Pitt that year, didn't you?

Yeah, I did.

Did that win the game?

It kind of helped seal it.

That was here, right?

No, that was at Rutgers.

Was that when you guys just started turning it around there?

Yes, it was.

So that was a pretty big win for the program, right?

Oh yeah. lt was.

Was your progress set back as an offensive lineman by playing defense that year?

You could say so, but it kind of helped, I guess, in my agility and everything.

Describe how this last season went for Rutgers.

It felt unreal. In the off season, everyone was saying we were going to go 12-0. So in the off season, we really worked out really hard to do the best you could, after that bowl loss. Just the whole experience was overwhelming.

No one really believed you though, did they? Outsiders, did they believe you?

No one believed us. When we talked to reporters before the season, it was like, 'yeah, we're going for a Big East Championship.' And they kind of heckled a little bit. But we all believed that we could do it.

Well you were wrong. You didn't finish undefeated, did you?

Oh, no. It gives us something to look forward to next year.

You had 16 seniors on that team and the team was 12-1. You're the second guy drafted. How is that?

Good coaching.

No, I mean how come there has only been two of you drafted from an outstanding, senior-heavy team?

I'm not real sure because we have a lot of talent all around [with] all the seniors that have left. Most likely, the next guy will be Clark Harris, the tight end. And then I know a lot of the other guys are looking at free agency.

How about Joe Porter? We still want to get him in here.

Oh, man. He's lightning.

The offensive line coach said you've played center, or that you can play some center. Can you expand on that?

I was kind of a backup center when I was at Rutgers. Yeah, I can play it.

Do you know much about the Steelers? Have you watched them in your past?

I know about Troy Polamalu.

I've seen you. You have his hair style, don't you?

A little bit. I watched him when he was at [Southern California].

How about your tattoos? I see them on your arm. Is your body covered with them?

No. Just on my left side. I never really had time to finish it. It's just a story of my village back in Tonga.

Back in where?

Tonga.

So you're not from Australia? You're from Tonga?

I was born in Australia. My mom's from Tonga and my dad's Australian.

So you left Sydney, Australia, at the age of what?

Eight.

And where did you go?

Englewood, California.

Why did you make that move?

My mom's the eldest daughter out of the whole family. I guess there was financial problems at the time. So she had to move and help out her parents.

How much have you practiced at center?

Just during practice, just taking snaps and got moving around a little bit. I haven't played it in a game yet.

They'll probably ask you to do a little bit more of that here, don't you expect?

Yeah. I've been working on it.

You don't long snap, do you?

No.

You must be a workout warrior – 33 reps at 225 [lbs] is incredible.

Thanks. I just like to work out.

Pittsburgh Steelers 5th Rd Draft Pick: Cameron Stephenson

CAMERON STEPHENSON

Offensive Guard

Rutgers Scarlet Knights

6:03.0-306

Inglewood, Calif.

Los Angeles Harbor College

Hawthorne High School

5th Round – 156th Overall

OVERVIEW

Stephenson is an emerging talent who found a home at right guard as a senior…Throughout his college career, he bounced around between both front walls…He began his career as a defensive tackle at Los Angeles Harbor College, but shifted to offensive tackle when he transferred to Rutgers in 2004…Stephenson moved back to the defensive line in 2005 for the Scarlet Knights, but after that season he spent preseason drills acclimating to playing on the offensive line…His stellar performance in the trenches led to him earning All-Big East honors, as a he was part of a line that allowed the fewest sacks (eight) in the nation in 2006…At Hawthorne High School, Stephenson was a three-year starter on the offensive line, competing at the demanding left tackle position…During his three years with the varsity, he earned All-Bay League honors each season…Stephenson enrolled at Los Angeles Harbor College in 2002…He started at defensive tackle as a freshman, earning second team All-South Coast Conference and all-state honors…He was scheduled to play on both lines in 2003, but on the first play of the season opener he suffered a knee injury and did not return, earning a medical redshirt…In 2004, Stephenson transferred to Rutgers…He appeared in seven games as an offensive lineman, earning his first career start on that side of the ball at right tackle against Temple…The following season, he returned to the defensive line, recording 10 tackles (two solos) with a sack, two stops for losses and a fumble recovery…As a senior, Stephenson started all year at right guard, where he earned second-team All-Big East Conference honors…He allowed just one of the eight sacks given up by the front wall, as the Scarlet Knights averaged 180.2 yards per game on the ground.

2006 SEASON

Was Rutgers' starting right guard that led the Scarlet Knights to a Texas Bowl victory over Kansas State...Part of a Rutgers' offensive line that allowed just eight sacks the entire season, the fewest of any team nationally…A 2006 second-team All-BIG EAST selection...Part of a Rutgers' rushing offense that is ranked 26th in the country...Contributed to a Rutgers' offense that posted a 56-point performance against Howard (9/23), the most points scored at Rutgers under Greg Schiano and the most points scored by the Scarlet Knights since the Sept. 9, 2000 contest against Buffalo...Serves on a line that has paved the way for RU to average nearly 200 rushing yards per game this season...Contributed to a Rutgers blocking effort that allowed both Brian Leonard and Ray Rice to rush for 100 yards apiece in the win over Syracuse (11/25), marking the first time since 1994 the Scarlet Knights have had two 100-yard performers in a game.

2005 SEASON

Switched from the defensive line to the offensive line in Spring Practice 2006...Played in all 12 games...Had a TFL and a half sack in win at Buffalo...Had a TFL and a fumble recovery in RU's 37-29 victory over Pittsburgh.

2004 SEASON

Played in 7-of-11 games on the offensive line in 2004…Made his first career start vs. Temple (10/16) at left tackle…Was part of an offensive line that ranked first in the BIG EAST and sixth nationally in passing (310.5 yards/game).

JUNIOR COLLEGE

Spent the 2002-03 seasons at Los Angeles Harbor College…Started at defensive tackle for the Seahawks in 2002, earning All-South Coast Conference second-team and all-state honors…Was scheduled to start on both sides of the ball in 2003, but hurt his knee in the season opener, missing the rest of the season (granted a medical hardship)…Made the move to defense at Harbor…Was slated to start on both sides of the ball in 2003…One of six players from Harbor to sign with Division I teams in 2004.

HIGH SCHOOL

Was a three-year starter on offense at Hawthorne High School at left tackle…Three-year All-Bay League pick.

PERSONAL

Sociology major…Born 6/18/83 in Sydney, Australia…Resides in Inglewood, Calif.

Miami Dolphins Profile 4th Round Pick: Paul Soliai

PAUL FUAPAPA SOLIAI

April 29, 2007

Defensive Tackle/Nose Guard/Offensive Guard
University of Utah
6:04.0-344
Pago Pago, American Samoa
Coffeyville Community College
Nuuuli Poly-technical High School



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* Paul Soliai Draft Notes



OVERVIEW
One of eight children, Soliai was team captain and an offensive lineman at Nuuuli Poly Tech in Pago Pago, American Samoa. He also lettered in basketball and soccer. Upon graduating, Soliai moved to the United States. He enrolled at Coffeyville Community College in 2002, where he
excelled as an offensive guard. The two-time All-Jayhawk Community College Conference choice added All-American honorable mention as a freshman and first-team national honors in 2003.

Soliai transferred to the University of Utah in 2004, spending the season redshirting on the scout team. He suited up for the team’s fourth game of the season vs. Air Force, but did not appear in that game. He shifted to the defensive line in 2005 spring camp, gaining valuable experience behind Kelly Talavou at nose guard. He managed just five tackles (4 solos) with a sack and 1.5 stops behind the line of scrimmage.

Soliai earned second-team All-Mountain West Conference honors in 2006, starting the team’s first twelve games at nose guard. He registered 35 tackles (13 solos) with 2.5 sacks, 3.5 stops for losses and four pass deflections. He caused and recovered a fumble while also blocking an extra point attempt.

In 24 games at Utah, Soliai started 12 contests. He produced 40 tackles (14 solos) with 3.5 sacks for minus 27 yards and five stops for losses totaling 31 yards. He caused and recovered a fumble. He also was credited with four pass break-ups and one blocked kick.

CAREER NOTES
The team compiled a 5-1 record in games that Soliai had a tackle behind the line of scrimmage.

2006 SEASON
All-Mountain West Conference second-team selection…Started the first twelve games at nose guard…Recorded 35 tackles (13 solos) with 2.5 sacks for minus 17 yards and 3.5 stops for losses of 19 yards…Recovered and caused a fumble…Blocked an extra point attempt and had four pass deflections.

2006 GAME ANALYSIS
UCLA…In his first career start, he responded with three solo tackles…Head to Head Competition-OC#54-Robert Chai.

Northern Arizona…Posted four tackles (3 assists with a pair of pass deflections, a 2-yard sack and 1.5 stops behind the line of scrimmage)…Took down Jason Murrietta for no gain on a third-&-1 run late in the first quarter Sacked Murrietta for a 5-yard loss early in the second quarter…Head to Head Competition-OC#55-Kevin Meagher.

Boise State…Totaled a career-high six tackles (5 solos) and sacked QB Jarad Zabransky for a 10-yard loss on first-&-goal at the start of the fourth quarter…Earlier, with 2:40 left in the third quarter, he stopped Zabransky for no gain on a second-&-goal run…Head to Head Competition-
OC#69-Jadon Dailey.

Texas Christian…Followed with five tackles (2 solos), causing a fumble that he recovered when he stripped the ball from Marcus Jackson on a 1-yard run at the TCU 11 with 11:28 left in the game…Killed a third quarter drive when he stopped Lonta Hobbs for no gain on a rushing attempt and on the next play, third-&-3, he took down Jackson at the line of scrimmage, forcing the Horned Frogs to punt…Head to Head Competition-OC#75-Blake Schlueter.

Wyoming…Managed four assisted tackles…Head to Head Competition-OC#69-Jason Karcher. Nevada-Las Vegas…Registered four tackles (3 solos), including one that stopped David Peeples for a 1-yard loss on a second-&-10 run at the start of the fourth quarter…Head to Head Competition-OC#54-Aaron Mueller.

Colorado State…Credited with a pair of tackles, assisting Martai Burnett in sacking QB Caleb Hanie for a 10-yard loss on third-&-2 with 7:33 left in the third quarter…Head to Head Competition-OC#64-Nick Allotta.

Brigham Young…Deflected a pass, produced two assisted tackles and blocked an extra point attempt at the start of the fourth quarter in his final collegiate game…Head to Head Competition- OC#67-Sete Aulai.

2005 SEASON
Played in twelve games at nose guard behind Kelly Talavou…Saw action mostly in short yardage situations…Finished with just five tackles (4 assists), a 10-yard sack and 1.5 stops for losses totaling 12 yards.

2005 GAME HIGHLIGHTS
Registered his first career sack, taking down QB Adam Austin for a 10-yard loss with 1:00 left in the first half vs. Arizona…Credited with four tackles, assisting Derek Beardall in taking down Ryan Bohm for a 4-yard loss on a third-&-6 screen pass thrown by Bernard Jackson with 9:44
remaining in the game.

2004 SEASON
Redshirted during his first year at Utah…Suited up for the fourth game vs. Air Force, but did not play.

JUNIOR COLLEGE
Enrolled at Coffeyville Community College in 2002, where he excelled as an offensive guard…The two-time All-Jayhawk Community College Conference choice added All-American honorable mention as a freshman in 2002 and first-team national honors in 2003.

PERSONAL
Sociology major…One of eight children of Florence Levao Mother played softball at San Francisco State…Step-father is the Reverend Foto Levao…Born Paul Fuapapa Soliai on 12/30/83 in Orange County, California…Resides in Pago Pago, American Samoa.

Samson Satele Conference Call with Miami Media

Samson Satele Conference Call Transcript

April 28, 2007
(On the story about his hair) – “I’ve been growing it since I was a little kid. When I went over to my grandpa’s house my grandma cut it because she likes it the old Samoan way, the short hair, but I just kept growing it out and when it got to a point in high school where my grandma never said anything. I grew it out in high school and then cut it. I grew it out again in college to start all over.”

(On his personal expectations with the Dolphins in his rookie season) – “I want to be the best player out there. The Dolphins picked me. I’m going to bust my buns. I’m going to be a rookie, but I’m not going to play and practice like a rookie. I’m going to be a vet out there – like I’ve been in the league for awhile. I’m just going to bring everything I have.”

(On offensive line coach Hudson Houck) – “He’s a great coach. He worked me out at the Pro Day. I fell in love with the coach.”

(On what specifically he likes about Hudson Houck) – “I like the coaches that tell you one time and you have to do it. He’s a good coach, a teaching coach and a tough coach.”

(On how working under June Jones helped his development) – “It helped me a lot. Coach Jones helped me with the defense. He helped me with my (knowledge) of knowing the defense and where the blitzes are coming from. I’m thankful that I went to UH.”

(On if he sees himself as a multi-position player) – “Multi – I told Coach Hudson that I’d love to play center, but if he wants me to play guard then I’ll move to guard.”

(On what the Dolphins said to him about playing a different position) – “He told me I was a tough guy.”

(On when his mean streak comes out) – “I’m a humble a guy off the field. Once I step onto that field, practice and games, I just turn into a different guy.”

(On what adjustments he will have to make in the NFL after having played in the run-and-shoot at Hawaii) – “A lot of the coaching, the run-blocking scheme, we didn’t do that much at UH. We just did special work. The more reps I do, the more feeling I get back for me because I did it a lot in high school. I missed the run-blocking out in Hawaii.”

(On why he chose to play at Hawaii) – “I always wanted to play for Hawaii. I made a decision at Christmas, a verbal commitment.”

(On if several colleges recruited him out of high school) – “A lot of colleges were recruiting me like Nebraska, Colorado, BYU and Utah. I just wanted to play for Hawaii.”

(On where he is located currently in Hawaii) – “I’m in Mililani.”

(On how many people are with him) – “About 50.”

(On what the scene was like when he was selected) – “I couldn’t even hear the guy that called me. They knew right away. They were just yelling.”

(On relatives playing in the NFL) – “Uncle Alvis (Satele) made it to the San Diego Chargers. I have a lot of cousins that made it too. Those guys that made it before me, they gave me a lot of things to look forward to and think about because it’s not college anymore, it’s a business.”

Miami Dolphins Profile 2nd Round Pick: Samson Satele

SAMSON SATELE

April 28, 2007

Offensive Center/Guard
University of Hawaii Warriors
6:02.5-300
Kaneohe, O`ahu, Hawaii
Kailua High School



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* Listen to Samson Satele's conference call with the South Florida media 300k and 56kor read a transcript



OVERVIEW
The Warriors’ coaching staff was concerned about protecting their star quarterback, Colt Brennan, entering the 2006 season. With starter Derek Faavi having graduated, there was a huge vacancy to fill at the center position. Satele (pronounced (sah-TELL-ay) approached head coach June Jones about moving to the pivot from left offensive guard. Not only did Samson solidify the Hawaii front wall, the versatile blocker quickly established himself as the premier pass protector in college football at his new position. With his raw power and nimble feet, pro scouts are comparing him to former San Francisco 49ers great, Jesse Sapolu.

Satele was an All-State first-team selection by the Honolulu Star-Bulletin and The Honolulu Advertiser as a senior at Kailua High School. He was also named first-team All-League and earned All-American honors from Prep Star, a recruiting service that rated Samson as one of the top twenty offensive linemen in the West. He was the recipient of the Top Offensive Lineman Award at the 2001 Maverick Football clinic, after leading the team to a share of the league title.

Samson also lettered three times in basketball. He was chosen All-State in hoops three consecutive seasons, adding All-League accolades as a junior and senior. He was also named the team’s Most Valuable Player his junior campaign. Satele added three letters in track, competing in the shot put and discus. He was also named the school's Athlete of the Year for 2000-01.

Satele enrolled at Hawaii in 2002, spending the season performing on the scout team. He moved into the starting lineup immediately, lining up for the season opener at left tackle before moving to left guard for the rest of the fourteen-game schedule. He registered 48 knockdown blocks and allowed only one quarterback sack. For that performance, he earned second-team All-Western Athletic Conference and Scripps/FWAA first-team Fresh-man All-American honors.

Samson would go on to start every game that he played in for the Warriors. He lined up at left guard in ten contests and at center for three games, producing 42 knockdowns with only one sack in 2004, picking up All-WAC second-team accolades. In 2005, he stayed at left guard for all twelve games. He registered 32 knockdowns, allowed two sacks and graded 86% for blocking consistency while garnering All-WAC first-team recognition.

Having moved back to center in 2006, Satele was an All-American first-team pick by The NFL Draft Report. He was named All-WAC first-team, as he produced 65 knockdowns for an offense that generated 559.2 yards per game, paving the way for a unit that generated 84 touchdowns.

What was even more impressive was that he held his main assignment to no tackles in seven of the fourteen games he played in. In 53 games at Hawaii, all starts, Samson was credited 177 knockdown blocks.

CAREER NOTES
Satele holds the school career-record by starting 53 consecutive games for the Warriors… That streak was the longest among all active players in the NCAA Division 1-A ranks in 2006…Did not allow an opponent to register any statistics in seven games during his first year as a full-time starter at center in 2006…A colorful character, Samson “lives up” to his first name, as he has not had his hair cut since enrolling at Hawaii in 2002.

2006 SEASON
All-American first-team selection by The NFL Draft Report…Rated the best center prospect for the 2007 NFL Draft by nfldraftscout.com…Consensus All-Western Athletic Conference first-team choice…Served as one of the team’s tri-captains. Head coach June Jones said Satele was the right choice for that leadership role, stating, “Samson has asserted himself in a leadership role this year through his workouts and on the field. He’s trying to be a winner. He’s a good kid, and a very powerful player.”…Satele bypassed entering the 2006 NFL Draft to return to the team, moving from left guard to fill a huge vacancy at center…Fresno State’s Kyle Young was regarded as the WAC’s best center entering the season, but Satele’s performance far surpassed his counterpart. Samson kept Young’s picture in his locker for “motivation.” “He had a lot at stake
(coming back),” Jones said. “He had a very good season. Samson is all I thought he would be, and more.”…Assistant offensive line coach Dennis McKnight chimed in, saying, “Sam, for having moved inside and playing his third position in four years, has done a phenomenal job at center. He makes all the calls. He’s so smart and we could not imagine where we would be this year without him.”…Satele led what many pro scouts felt was the best offensive line in college football…He helped the offense win the offensive “triple crown,” as the warriors led the nation in total offense (559.21 ypg), passing offense (441.29 ypg) and scoring (46.86 ppg)…The team’s 559.21 yards in total offense rank second in NCAA Division 1-A history, topped only by Houston’s average of 624.9 yards in 1989…Finished the season with a career-high 82 knockdowns/key blocks, including 24 touchdown-resulting blocks, grading 87.4% for blocking consistency…Satele did not allow any tackles in seven contests and gave up only one quarterback pressure and two stops behind the line of scrimmage in fourteen games.

2005 SEASON
All-Western Athletic Conference first-team selection…Started all year at left offensive guard, grading 86% for blocking consistency while coming up with 32 knockdowns, en route to helping an offense that generated 5,714 yards…Allowed two quarterback sacks and three pressures on 578 pass plays…Part of a unit that ranked second in the nation in passing offense, averaging 384.25 yards per game and finished eleventh nationally with an average of 476.17 yards per game in total offense…Produced a string of three-straight games where he did not allow his assignment to register any tackles (New Mexico State, San Jose State, Fresno State).

2004 SEASON
Satele earned All-Western Athletic Conference second-team honors…He started every game for the Warriors, lining up at left guard in ten contests and at center in three others… Led the team with 42 knockdown blocks, including ten that resulted in touchdowns…The offense ranked second in the nation with an average of 384.25 yards per game passing and finished ninth in scoring with an average of 35.92 points.

2003 SEASON
Second-team All-WAC selection…Member of the Scripps/Football Writers Association Freshman All-American first-team…Warrior Club Award winner…Started all fourteen games, lining up at left tackle in the season opener vs. Appalachian State before shifting to left guard for the rest of the schedule…Registered a team-high 48 knockdowns, as he allowed only one sack (vs. Houston) in 754 pass attempts...Compiled a career-high nine knockdowns at Louisiana Tech.

2002 SEASON
Redshirted as a freshman.

HIGH SCHOOL
Attended Kailua (Hi.) High School, playing football for head coach Darren Johnson…All-State first-team selection by the Honolulu Star-Bulletin and The Honolulu Advertiser as a senior…Named first-team All-League and earned All-American honors from Prep Star, a recruiting service that rated Samson as one of the top twenty offensive linemen in the West…Recipient of the Top Offensive Lineman Award at the 2001 Maverick Football clinic, after leading the team to a share of the league title…Lettered three times in basketball… Chosen All-State in hoops three consecutive seasons, adding All-League accolades as a junior and senior…Named the team’s Most Valuable Player his junior campaign…Added three letters in track, competing in the shot put and discus…Named the school's Athlete of the Year for 2000-01.

PERSONAL
Graduated in December, 2006, with a degree in Sociology…Son of Norine and Faalata Satele…Nephew of former Hawaii Warrior and San Diego Chargers linebacker Alvis Satele and former Rainbow Wahine volleyball player Lee Ann Pestana…Cousins, defensive end Melila Purcell (2003-06) and offensive guard Hercules Satele (2004-present) were team-mates of Samson’s on the Hawaii football team…Samson lives up to his first name, as the lineman has not had his hair cut since enrolling at Hawaii in 2002…Born 11/29/84 in Kailua, O`ahu, Hawaii…Resides in Honolulu. Hawaii.

DE Ikaika Alama-Francis' Professional Sports Dreams Ended up with the NFL

Falling in Love with Football
DE Ikaika Alama-Francis' Professional Sports Dreams Ended up with the NFL
By Chuck Klonke
Detroitlions.com
April 28, 2007

Alama-Francis' father, Joe, was a backup quarterback during the Vince Lombardi era. (Photo: WireImage)

ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- When he was in high school, Ikaika Alama-Francis dreamed of a career in professional sports.

However, that vision had the Hawaiian native wearing the uniform of an NBA team.

Saturday, that dream became reality when the 6-foot-5, 280-pound defensive lineman from the University of Hawaii was drafted in the second round of the NFL Draft by the Lions.

Obviously, there were a couple of detours along the way.

It might seem like Alama-Francis was destined to be a football player. His father, Joe Francis, was a backup quarterback for the Green Bay Packers during the early Vince Lombardi-era.

That wasn't the case. Ikaika never played a down of football at Kalaheo High School in Hawaii. Instead, he was a star basketball and volleyball player.

"My dad told me that I'd have to make my own decisions in life and at the time I was playing basketball and loving it," Alama-Francis said. "He was a big football player but he told me to do what I liked to do.

"At the time I dreamed about being in the NBA. Then I came over to football, and it's just unbelievable the way things turned out. It's crazy."

A lot of folks probably thought Hawaii football coach June Jones was crazy when he offered Alama-Francis a scholarship coming out of high school.

"I thought he was crazy," Alama-Francis said with a laugh. "I had no prior football experience. There was no tape. I was 190 pounds and 6-6. And he threw me with the defensive linemen. I was going up against guys who were 250 pounds plus."

Jones had one word of instruction for Alama-Francis, keeping in mind his basketball background.

"He said, 'the quarterback is the hoop, so get to the basket as fast as you can,'" Alama-Francis recalled.

The words obviously sunk in. The last two years he registered 10 quarterback sacks and 18 1/2 tackles behind the line. He also developed a love for football.

"As years went along, I told myself that I was going to give everything I had to football," Alama-Francis said. "I fell in love with the game, but I never imagined this would happen. I'm so grateful and I'm going to dedicate myself to getting better every day and be as good a football player as I can."

A lot of Alama-Francis's development can be traced to the Rainbow Warriors' hiring of former NFL head coach Jerry Glanville as their defensive coordinator. Detroit native Glanville, like Jones, is a former assistant coach for the Lions.

"He and June Jones complement each other so well," Alama-Francis said. "June Jones is a laid-back strategic person and Jerry Glanville will get in your jock strap. He has that fire that will make you go, and if you don't go, you won't play.v

"I was energized to have him as our defensive coordinator because he was a former NFL head coach. I'm glad he was on our side."

Alama-Francis had heard that he might be drafted in the early rounds, but the wait got to be too much for him.

"I watched a little of (the draft) in the beginning but I just couldn't watch it," Alama-Francis said. "When the Lions called me I was hitting a bucket of golf balls. I was just trying to get the nerves out.

"When I got that phone call that said 'welcome to the Motor City,' every emotion raced through my body. It was an incredible feeling, something I've never felt before in my life."

The Lions coaches liked Alama-Francis's versatility.

"This guy is an athletic guy," said head coach Rod Marinelli. "He's played basketball, volleyball -- all those different types of things. His movement laterally is exceptional. This guy can play inside and I think he can play outside, so he gives you position flexibility. He's got real good hand-eye coordination and the balance is extraordinary."

When Alama-Francis's father was playing for the Packers, Green Bay and Detroit were dominating the NFL's Western Division. However, Joe Francis didn't spin a lot of yarns about those days to his young son.

"He's such a humble, grounded person that I didn't even know he played professional football until I got to high school," Alama-Francis said. "He's kept me grounded my whole life. He said you should never expect anything from anybody -- you have to earn it. I guess you'd call it that old-school mentality.

"When I asked him about (his career) he'd tell me about it. It was incredible to hear him tell about the guys he played on the team with like (Ray) Nitschke, Jerry Kramer, Bart Starr. Those are all legends."

Joe Francis played against some legends, too, like Lions greats Joe Schmidt, Alex Karras and Yale Lary just to name a few.

"I'm sure I'll hear about them now," Alama-Francis said.

Alama-Francis, Satele picked in NFL draft

Alama-Francis, Satele picked in NFL draft

By Stephen Tsai
Advertiser Staff Writer

Yes, big guys cry.

They weep unabashedly when their pretty-please wishes are answered.

"I just broke down," said Ikaika Alama-Francis, a former University of Hawai'i defensive end who was selected by the Detroit Lions in the second round of yesterday's National Football League draft. "I couldn't save any tears. It was an amazing thing."

Former UH center Samson Satele tried to leash his emotions after learning he was picked in the second round — two spots after Alama-Francis was selected — by the Miami Dolphins.

"After I talked to the Miami guy, I saw my dad and gave him a big hug," Satele said. "And then everything just came out. All of my tears just came out. It took me an hour to recover."

The announcements ended a white-knuckle week for both players. Although each was projected to be selected on the first day, Satele admitted, "You never know."

Alama-Francis did not play organized sports until his freshman year at Kalaheo High School. His first time in a football uniform was three years ago, when he switched from the UH basketball team. The Lions were not one of the six teams to invite Alama-Francis for a personal interview.

Satele had played football for 15 years. But last year was his first season as a full-time center.

Satele had a pillow-punching night leading to yesterday morning's draft telecast.

"I couldn't sleep," Satele said. "I stayed up more than 24 hours. I drove around at 4 o'clock in the morning. I went to Fast Stop and got a couple of Red Bulls. I thought (the draft) started at 5. It started at 6. I had to wait another hour."

Both knew they would not sneak into the first round. Still, Alama-Francis could not take the tension.

"I turned around, and he was gone," said his father, Joe Francis, who played for the Green Bay Packers in the 1960s. "I said, 'Where's Ikaika?' They told me he had to leave."

Alama-Francis and former UH punter Kurt Milne met at the Bay View Golf Course. They headed straight to the driving range.

"I was going crazy, man," Alama-Francis said. "I had to do something. I couldn't take it anymore."

Then his cell phone rang.

"It was a 313 number," Alama-Francis recalled. "I thought, 'This could be it.' I answered the phone, and the voice on the other end said: 'Welcome to the Motor City.' I started going crazy. I started screaming and yelling. And then I started giving away my golf balls. I just bought a bucket and I'm like, 'I don't care.' "

Meanwhile, Satele was in the eighth hour of his personal anguish.

"It was nerve-wracking," Satele said of watching the draft coverage. "I had my hat down low. My pillow was covering my face. I tried not to look at the TV. I was sitting there for a long time. It was a long wait."

There was a slight panic in the self-styled "Party Zone" — his uncle Alvis Satele's living room, where family and friends had waited — when ESPN's draft coverage ended. It took about a minute to realize the coverage moved to ESPN2.

"All we had to do was click the channel button, and everything was better," Satele said.

And then Satele received the call from the Dolphins.

"I know I have a lot of work to do, but I'm so happy I was drafted," Satele said. "It's so hard to explain."

Alama-Francis could relate.

"It's a dream come true," said Alama-Francis, who will play defensive end in the Lions' 4-3 schemes. "I never thought I'd be in this position. Never. I mean, what do you know? I'm in the National Football League. Me. Unbelievable."

Alama-Francis reports to the Lions' mini-camp on Thursday.

Satele leaves Thursday for the Dolphins' introductory dinner in Miami. He then will stay for mini-camp.

Both will have to make adjustments. The Lions always play on Thanksgiving.

"Happy Thanksgiving," Alama-Francis said.

For the introductory dinner, Satele must buy his first suit and tie.

"It's going to be a fun ride from now on," Satele said. "I'm going to make my way around Miami and try to find Shaq."

Reach Stephen Tsai at stsai@honoluluadvertiser.com.

Honolulu SB: Alama Francis to Detroit and Satele to Miami in 2nd Round

Alama-Francis, Satele go in second round

Instant millionaires.

It was hard to comprehend what being a second-round NFL Draft pick meant in terms of money. It was as unreal as watching the ticker on ESPN constantly running "58. DET-Ikaika Alama-Francis, Hawaii, DE" ... "60. MIA-Samson Satele, Hawaii, C" ...

Just USC center Ryan Kalil -- Carolina's pick -- between them.

Alama-Francis, who didn't play football in high school but whose father Joe was a reserve quarterback for Green Bay in 1958 and '59. And Satele, whose DNA is laden with pigskin molecules.

The pair gave the Warrior program its first set of second-round draft picks. It was also the best first day for Hawaii since 2003, when Pisa Tinoisamoa went in the second round and Wayne Hunter and Vince Manuwai went in the third.

As expected, both were still in a state of shock after the record 11 hours and 4 minutes it took to complete the first three rounds yesterday.

"I am speechless right now," Satele said. "I am so happy for Ikaika and I'm praying for our other boys (to be drafted).

"Anywhere would have been good, but I was pretty sure it was going to be Miami. They had the most interest and I love their coach. I've never been there, but I think it will be easy to get used to."

Sports agent Leo Goeas, a former Warrior and NFL player, represents Satele. He was at his Domann and Pittman office in Colorado Springs, Colo., yesterday watching the draft and text-messaging his brother Larry, who was with the Sateles during the ESPN broadcast.

"After Kalil got picked, I texted Larry with 'Miami,' " Leo Goeas said last night. "Then came the call (from the Dolphins) and then his name flashed. He was the first from our company to go (in the draft). There was a lot of jubilation and cheering here.

"I thought it was really cool that he and Ikaika were so close together. He's such a great kid whose potential is untapped."

Goeas' company represents 12 players hoping to be drafted this year, including several Warriors waiting for calls today: offensive lineman Dane Uperesa, defensive end Melila Purcell and running back Nate Ilaoa. Other draft possibles are defensive back Leonard Peters and offensive lineman Tala Esera.

"I think Dane should be the next of my guys to go, probably fourth, fifth round," Goeas said. "But the draft is never a perfect science.

"Esera is right up there and Mel and Nate should go sixth, seventh round. I remember what it was like, the stress of waiting, watching, seeing the clips of players then all of a sudden your phone rings and there's someone saying, 'We just took you.' Sixty seconds it's on TV."

When watching yesterday, Goeas noticed something else. Both he and Satele were the 60th pick overall on their respective draft days, Goeas going to San Diego in 1990 early in the third round.

But the bonus money is a world apart 17 years later. Goeas said he signed for $127,000, while Satele is expecting around $1.1 million.

It will be close to $1.4 million for Alama-Francis.

"I'm going to stash it away," Alama-Francis said. "I'll take care of my family, of course.

"Having that amount of money ... I just want it to be the start of something good."

Having the two players go so early was a good way to start the last day of spring practice for Warrior coach June Jones.

"I'm really excited for them and their families," Jones said. "I was hoping they'd go first or second round. And to have them drafted so close to each other got our program a lot of play on ESPN.

"Sam is going to be a great player. Ikaika is very physical and is only going to get better.

"I think we've got at least four more with a shot Sunday."

Ilaoa said he hadn't expected to see his name on ESPN yesterday, but watched anyway.

"I'm doing OK," Ilaoa said last night. "I'm happy for my teammates, a little surprised about their teams, but happy for them.

"I'm hoping for the best. I'll wait and see."