Former Morehead State wide receiver Donte Sawyer has signed a professional contract with the Green Bay Blizzard of the Indoor Football League.
Sawyer, who played in 43 contests from 2009-12, set Morehead State career records for receptions (199), receiving yards (2,555) and receiving touchdowns (24). Sawyer established MSU single-season standards for receptions (81) and receiving yards (1,024) as a senior, plus the school record for receiving touchdowns (12) as a junior.
"Congratulations to Donte on this great opportunity," MSU Head Coach Rob Tenyer said. "Donte is one of the most talented receivers I've ever coached. Our offense put up some big numbers from 2009-12, and he is one of the reasons why we enjoyed so much success."
A native of Acworth, Ga., Sawyer was named a Third-Team Football Championship Subdivision All-American by Beyond Sports College Network in 2012. He was also tabbed as a First-Team All-Pioneer Football selection by the conference office and College Sports Madness.
Sawyer led the PFL in receptions (7.4) and all-purpose yards (159.0) per contest as a senior, while ranking second in receiving yards (93.1) per affair and kick-return average (26.2). He notched one National Player of the Week accolade and two PFL Player of the Week awards.
Sawyer participated in the FCS Senior Scout Bowl after his final season at Morehead State. He was a First-Team All-PFL choice as a junior in 2011, Honorable-Mention honoree as a sophomore in 2010 and earned a spot on the league's Honor Roll his final two years.
"It's a great day for Morehead State football anytime one of our players can move on to the next level," Tenyer added. "Donte had a terrific career on the field, earned his college degree off the field and is now getting paid to play the game. We wish him the very best in the IFL."
The Intense Football League and United Indoor Football Association merged in 2009 to form the Indoor Football League. The circuit currently includes franchises in Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, South Dakota, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
The Green Bay Blizzard are based in Ashwaubenon, Wis. They play across from historic Lambeau Field in the Resch Center. The IFL season runs from February through June. Games are played on a 50-yard field. Rosters include 24 players, with eight on the field at a time.
