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Bulldog Football National Champion Alum Jared Bernhardt Makes NFL Roster

Jared Bernhardt made itFormer Ferris State University football standout Jared Bernhardt (Longwood, Fla.), who led FSU to the school's first NCAA Division II National Championship on the field last fall, has made the 53-man opening day roster for the National Football League's (NFL) Atlanta Falcons.

Bernhardt, who signed with the Falcons as a priority free agent following this past spring's NFL Draft, was among the final 53-man roster selections today as NFL teams made their final cuts. After playing quarterback for the Bulldogs a year ago, he converted to a wide receiver and kick returner role with the Falcons, scoring on a game-winning TD reception in week two of the preseason against the Detroit Lions.

The Bulldog alum joins two other Ferris State products in making NFL 53-man roster this year in fifth-year pro's Tavierre Thomas (Houston) and Zach Sieler (Miami). Bernhardt is the first Bulldog player under head coach Tony Annese to make the 53-man roster out of preseason camp as a rookie.

"We're so excited for Jared and he's one special player I would never bet against," said Annese. "He's an extremely hard worker and dedicated individual who brings out the best in everyone. It's great he has this special opportunity to continue his career and we'll be following him when he takes the field."

Visit the Ferris State University Athletics website for the full story.