Former 49er defensive back Desmond Cooper (Jacksonville, Fla.; Bolles H.S.) signed a contract with the NFL's Jacksonville Jaguars, today, to become the first 49ers player to sign an NFL contract.

Cooper signed the contract shortly after the conclusion of the Jaguars two-day mini-camp.

"It's a little surreal. It's a great feeling being able to sign with the team I grew up watching," said Cooper. "I went at it every day with the mindset I could be cut at any time. Like (49ers head) coach (Brad) Lambert would say 'Attack the moment. Attack the day.' I just wanted to get out there and play and be fast. Like (strength coach Jim) Durning always said -- if you're walking, you're wrong."

Cooper was a two-year starter for the 49ers' upstart football program. He joined the 49ers as a transfer from Wake Forest in 2012 as Charlotte was preparing for its inaugural season in 2013. He started at safety for the 49ers in each of their first two years: 2013 and 2014 and was a game captain in both of the 49ers season openers, including the inaugural game, vs. Campbell, Aug. 31, 2013.

"I owe my accomplishments to Niner Nation -- the coaches, trainers, teammates, fans -- everyone involved," Cooper said. "Without you guys trusting me to lead the team in the right way and supporting us through it all -- without Niner Nation who knows if I would be here today. The road doesn't stop here, but I can say we are on the map!"

A 6-2; 215 safety, Cooper earned 21 starts and played in all 22 games over the last two years. He had three career interceptions and nine pass break-ups. In 2013, the 49ers ranked 25th in the FCS with 15 interceptions. Charlotte added 13, this past season. Cooper ranks third for the 49ers in career takeaways with four (3 INT; 1 FR) and he matched a school-record last season with interceptions in two consecutive games.

"It's been a big time dream," Cooper had said on Tuesday of landing the NFL mini-camp invite, particularly from his hometown Jaguars. "Growing up watching them -- they've been my team. It's my hometown team -- so I'm just going to go out and put out my hardest. I'm just excited to get the opportunity -- to get to put on the jersey for a few days and see how it works out."

It worked out well. Very well.