USD's Starr says he can't wait to start pro career

VERMILLION, S.D. (AP) — University of South Dakota linebacker Tyler Starr says being drafted by the NFL's Atlanta Falcons is "an unreal feeling."

The Falcons took Starr with the 255th pick in the draft — the second-to-last player chosen.

Starr is from Little Rock, Iowa. He issued a statement saying he can't wait to get his pro career started.

Several other players from South Dakota schools got free agent contracts or minicamp invites.

USD cornerback Jarrid Bryant signed a free agent contract with the St. Louis Rams and offensive lineman Cody O'Neill was invited to the Minnesota Vikings minicamp. South Dakota State tackle Bryan Witzmann and defensive end-outside linebacker Doug Peete got free agent contracts with the Houston Texans. Northern State lineman Jon Caspers got a Vikings minicamp invite.