Indiana University Athletics
Pannozzo Signs Free Agent Contract with Falcons
5/2/2006 12:00:00 AM | Football
May 2, 2006
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. - Former Indiana linebacker John Pannozzo signed a rookie free agent contract with the Atlanta Falcons. Pannozzo is the fourth Hoosier to earn a professional playing opportunity in the last three days.
"I'm happy for John," Indiana head coach Terry Hoeppner said. "He has worked hard. It's a good organization he's going to. I look forward to watching him play in the NFL."
Pannozzo joins former college teammates linebacker Kyle Killion (Indianapolis Colts rookie free agent), defensive end Victor Adeyanju (St. Louis Rams' fourth round pick) and offensive lineman Isaac Sowells (Cleveland Browns' fourth round pick) with an opportunity to play in the National Football League (NFL) next season.
After playing fullback his first three season in Bloomington, Pannozzo switched to middle linebacker and gave an instant boost to the defense last season. He recorded 52 tackles (40 solo), 7.5 tackles for loss and three sacks. Pannozzo also added a pair of fumble recoveries, including a 57-yard score against Ohio State.
