AP

Dolphins defensive lineman Paul Soliai has made a lot of money in the NFL. He’s now carving off a big chunk of it to help the college program that helped him succeed at the next level.

The University of Utah has announced that Soliai has pledged $250,000 to the school’s new football center. In recognition of the gift, the facility will include the Paul and LeTasha Soliai Player Lounge.

“I’m thankful I can donate and help out the University of Utah football team and give back to the school,” Soliai said in a statement issued by Utah. “They gave me the opportunity to play, and as a kid from Samoa, it’s something I’m thankful for every day. Without the University giving me a scholarship to play the sport I love, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Soliai was drafted by the Dolphins in the fourth round of the 2007 draft. The Dolphins used the franchise tag on Soliai in 2011, paying him $12.381 million for one season. In 2012, he signed a two-year deal that runs through 2013.