Johnson, Wright picked up as free agents

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - Former Middle Tennessee football players Thomas Johnson and Kerry Wright were picked up as NFL free agents on Sunday afternoon. Johnson is going to the Dallas Cowboys, while Wright will continue his play with the Indianapolis Colts.

Johnson received a call late in the day from former Blue Raider defensive line coach Kacy Rodgers telling him he was wanted in Dallas. Johnson will join former MT teammate ReShard Lee who is a running back with the Cowboys.

"I was really down most of the day because I really thought I would go in the later rounds," Johnson said. "When I finally heard the phone ring, my heart was pounding and I almost lost my breath. It was exciting and I can't wait to get started and prove myself."

Johnson will leave for Dallas this weekend. The Cowboys obviously are concentrating on defense as six of their eight picks in the draft were on defense.

Wright, the first receiver in school history to record back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, received his call while the seventh round of the draft was still going on. One of the top receivers in school history will now have the opportunity to snare passes from All-Pro quarterback Peyton Manning.

"I was anxious all day," Wright said. "I had a number of free agent offers but Indianapolis presented itself better than any of the other teams. The Colts were just a better fit for me and I am excited to get up there and start showing what I can do."

Wright will leave for Indianapolis on Thursday where he will go through a physical and participate in various team public relations assignments.

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