Liberty has long had alumni in the National Football League and this August it’s no different.
As you look around training camps across the country, there are five former Flames who are in camps and fighting for roster spots. Several new Flames, all except one a rookie, are making a name for themselves early in NFL training camp.
Here’s a closer examination of the Flames in NFL camps:
Walt AIkens (S, Tennessee Titans)
The veteran of the group, Aikens has spent the past six seasons with the Miami Dolphins, the team that drafted him in the 4th round in 2014. He’s played in 93 games in his career and has excelled on special teams the past couple of seasons with the Dolphins. He’s started four games on defense, but played a much larger role in the kicking game, with over 2,000 special teams snaps.
Solomon Ajayi (LB, Cleveland Browns)
The younger brother of former NFL running back Jay Ajayi, Solomon has been making an impression in Cleveland. He found himself in a great spot as the Browns are considered by many experts to have one of the worst linebacker units in the league. He’s been projected by some to make the final 53-man roster.
Elijah Benton (S, Cleveland Browns)
Joining Ajayi in Cleveland, Benton’s story from former walk-on to an NFL Training Camp is eye-catching. We’ll keep a close eye on him to see if he catch on to the active roster or maybe the practice squad.
Jessie Lemonier (DE/OB, Los Angeles Chargers)
As evidenced by his 20.5 sacks in two seasons at Liberty, Lemonier has a special talent – rushing the passer. He has already utilized that skill to get himself into camp, and now he hopes his unique talent is good enough to make the active roster.
Antonio Gandy-Golden (WR, Washington Football Team)
The fourth-round pick is starting to prove to Washington coaches and fans what we all came to know the past four seasons, Gandy-Golden is a special talent. He’s a lock to make the active roster, the question now becomes will he become a starter and how big of an impact will he have during his rookie season.
