Jordan Culver

Democrat staff writer

Former FAMU linebacker Akil Blount wasn't selected in the 2016 NFL Draft, but was picked up by the Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent.

He said a few teams called as soon as the draft was over, and that the Dolphins had the best offer. Blount will report to the Dolphins minicamp on Thursday.

"I'm very excited," Blount said in a phone interview with the Tallahassee Democrat. "I'm excited to work with the defensive coordinator down there and they're excited to have me, as well."

Blount thanked the FAMU fan base for its support throughout his college career.

"I just want to thank them for all of the years of support while I was there," he said. "They’re one of the greatest fan bases in the world."

On his time at FAMU, he added, "Even with the struggles and the difficulties we had, they kept supporting us. I’m appreciative of all the coaches -- from coach (Joe Taylor) to coach (Earl) Holmes to coach (Corey) Fuller and coach (Alex) Wood. They all played a part in this.

"I couldn’t be more proud to be a FAMU Rattler. That’s something I’m taking with me into minicamp and training camp. I worked hard to get where I’m at from the school I came from."

Blount, a 2015 third team All-MEAC selection, was tied for first on the Rattlers with 75 total tackles. He had two interceptions, both of which he returned for touchdowns. He was also selected to the 2016 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl.

Blount took to his Twitter account to announce the news: