Indiana University Athletics
Sowells and Adeyanju Selected In NFL Draft
4/30/2006 12:00:00 AM | Football
April 30, 2006
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. Former Indiana offensive tackle Isaac Sowells and defensive end Victor Adeyanju each took the next step in their respective NFL careers, as both former Hoosier standouts were selected in the 2006 NFL Draft on April 30. Sowells went to the Cleveland Browns in the fourth round (112th overall), while Adeyanju followed suit as the 113th overall pick to the St. Louis Rams.
This marks the first time in IU history that two Hoosiers were drafted in succession, a fact not lost on Sowells or Adeyanju.
"I had been projected in the fifth or sixth round, but Cleveland called me in the fourth round and said that they were going to pick me with the 110th or 112th pick," Sowells said. "Then (Cleveland) Coach (Romeo) Crennel called and asked me how I felt about becoming a Cleveland Brown. I said that I would love it. It was a dream come true, this is what you play football for, a chance to reach this level. And then to see Victor picked right after me made it even better."
Ironically, Adeyanju knew Sowells' selection before Sowells did.
"They had not even flashed Isaac's name on TV before the Rams called me and said, `One of your teammates just got picked by the Browns, and we're going to take you next," Adeyanju said. "It was crazy. I could have screamed, but I probably would have blown the (Ram official's) ear drums out. I am so happy for both of us. Those are the two biggest things - I wanted to go as high as possible, and I wanted to get into a good defensive system."
Indiana coach Terry Hoeppner is excited for his two former players, and he appreciates the example that Sowells and Adeyanju set for his younger players.
"I told them both that I was proud of them, because they worked hard for this opportunity," Hoeppner said. "Both of them are going into good playing situations for their respective teams. It's great for both guys and also good for the program. Hopfully, a sign of many more to come."
Adeyanju closed his Indiana career by starting 43 straight games. He recorded 47 tackles (12 for loss and 6.5 sacks). He had a season-high 12 tackles (seven solo, five assists) in the season finale against Purdue. Adeyanju also had a career-high three tackles for loss at Iowa and two sacks against Kentucky. The second team All-Big Ten selection competed in the Senior Bowl on Jan. 28 in Mobile, Ala.
Sowells served as an anchor of the offensive line with 11 starts in 2005. He also competed in the Las Vegas All-Star Classic and the East-West Shrine All-Star Game.
Sowells and Adeyanju will participate in their respective professional teams' mini-camps this weekend. Check back to IUHOOSIERS.COM next week to see how the duo fared in their pro debuts.
