As he prepares for his first minicamp as a professional, Mike Edwards says he has no regrets about relinquishing his senior season at the University of Hawaii to apply for last month’s NFL Draft.
Edwards, who was not selected in the seven-round draft, signed a free-agent contract with the New York Jets.
"Whether I was drafted or went as a free agent, I just wanted an opportunity," Edwards said. "I’m getting an opportunity."
Edwards emerged as a shut-down cornerback and scoring threat on kickoff returns during the 2012 season. There were four games in which an opponent did not throw a pass in Edwards’ area.
Edwards was ranked sixth nationally with an average of 30.38 yards per kickoff return. He was tied for the lead with three kickoff returns for touchdowns.
Edwards said he probably would have improved his draft value only slightly if he returned to UH.
The Jets traded All-Pro cornerback Darrelle Revis to Tampa Bay several days before the draft. The Jets drafted Alabama cornerback Dee Milliner with the ninth overall pick, but did not draft another cornerback.
Edwards has been told he will compete as a nickel cornerback and kickoff returner. Defensive backs coach Aaron Glenn, who lobbied to sign Edwards, was a nickel corner for the Jets.
"It’s a good opportunity, that’s for sure," said Edwards, who departs Cleveland on Thursday for this weekend’s minicamp in New Jersey. "I put God first. I know God has a plan for me. Things could have been easier and smoother, but as long as you have that opportunity, it’s up to you to make it happen. I’m a firm believer God has put me in a position for myself and for my family."
Edwards was dismissed from Tennessee’s football team in 2009 after being arrested as an accomplice in an attempted robbery. He eventually accepted an offer of two years probation in exchange for pleading to a lesser charge. His record has since been expunged.
"Without a doubt, Hawaii gave me my second chance at football," Edwards said. "It’s always going to be my second family, my second home. I definitely want to represent the 808. I don’t want to let people down."
Edwards said he needs to complete 18 hours of credits to earn a bachelor’s degree.
"That’s definitely on my list," Edwards said. "I’m definitely going to make sure I get that done."
