Estero's Morse moves on to next opportunity, with Giants

May/08/08 02:30 AM Filed in: Derrick Morse
DerrickMorse
As an offensive lineman at the University of Miami, Estero High product Derrick Morse spent the past four years opening holes for teammates.

Now, he's looking for one.

Despite making 29 starts for the Hurricanes in his college career, Morse wasn't taken in the NFL Draft, and now he's hitting the road to sell his game.

"As long as I have the opportunity," the 6-foot-4, 320-pound guard from Bonita Springs said, "that's all that matters. It's about going to minicamps and being seen. I'm a little behind the eight ball, sure, but I wouldn't say I'm disappointed. You've just got to take care of your opportunities."

He is working on his second.

After spending last weekend in Cleveland trying out for the Browns, Morse, an undrafted free agent, leaves today for New York, where he'll be in camp with the Giants the next few days.

Morse had hoped he wouldn't need the trip to New York. He'd hoped the Browns would sign him to his first contract following the tryout during their minicamp.

It didn't happen. Not right away, at least.

Morse said he had a meeting with Browns coaches on Sunday, and though they weren't ready to sign him, they told him they would be in touch.

"They said they might have a spot for me," Morse said, "but nothing's for sure. That's why I'm going to New York."

It's his latest opportunity.

Morse hopes the Giants will see why he was so productive at Miami. He hopes they will offer him a contract, and the chance to make their team.

If it doesn't work out? Well, he'll just keep trying.

"I just want to play football," Morse said. "I don't care what team I play for."

(naplesnews.com)