Three Cougars Ink Free-Agent Contracts Saturday

PROVO -- In addition to All-American tight end Dennis Pitta being selected in the 2010 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens, three other Cougars signed as free agents with NFL teams on Saturday. Additional signings could still be announced.

Quarterback Max Hall signed with the Arizona Cardinals, running back Manase Tonga agreed to a deal with Oakland Raiders and tight end Andrew George inked with the Carolina Panthers.

Hall (6-1, 201, QB) was a two-time Sports Illustrated All-America honorable-mention selection and a three-time All-MWC quarterback while leading the Cougar offense the past three seasons. He ranked No. 4 nationally in passing efficiency (160.13) as a senior while leading BYU to an 11-2 record, including a 3-1 resume against top-25 teams. During his career, Hall won more games than any other Cougar quarterback with 32, while amassing 11,365 yards passing and throwing for 94 touchdowns—both totals topped by only Heisman Trophy-winner Ty Detmer. Hall set 14 different school or conference records during his successful tenure.

Tonga (6-3, 238, RB) is a four-year letter winner who totaled 696 yards on 178 carries over his four seasons on the field. Serving as a blocking back during his career, Tonga is a versatile player who totaled 799 yards on 85 receptions as a solid pass-catching option out of the backfield. He scored 16 touchdowns on the ground and another six as a receiver for the Cougars. Known for his smart play and leadership, Tonga has been a valuable contributor, helping the Cougars achieve a 39-12 record over his four seasons.

George (6-5, 251, TE) earned second-team All-MWC recognition in 2009 while playing with Pitta as arguably the best tight end tandem in the country. A clutch receiver, he hauled in BYU’s winning touchdown grab in overtime to defeat rival Utah last season and helped the Cougars lead the nation in third-down conversion percentage with many key receptions. George totaled 827 yards and 70 catches the past three seasons while scoring 11 touchdowns for the Cougar attack.

Having signed as free agents, the players will take part in the upcoming team mini-camps and also participate in summer camps, looking to make their respective team’s final roster.

CLICK HERE to read more about Dennis Pitta being drafted by the Ravens.

BYU FREE AGENT SIGNINGS (as of April 24, 2010)
Player          Pos.    NFL Team
Andrew George   TE      Carolina Panthers
Max Hall        QB      Arizona Cardinals
Manase Tonga    RB      Oakland Raiders