I'll be graduating from the University of Montana this weekend with my degree in Journalism. It'll be a few weeks before I post any new stories on the blog but when I return, the stories will have a new twist.
    Starting in June, I'll be interning with the Columbus Dispatch newspaper in Columbus, Ohio, writing sports. My posts will now surround the Columbus sports scene happenings. Stay tuned and thanks again for all your support!
        -AJ Mazzolini

Former Montana defensive back Jimmy Wilson was selected in the 7th round of the NFL draft on Saturday by the Miami Dolphins. Miami picked up Wilson with the 235th overall pick and the 32nd in the round.

Wilson brings hard hitting and intensity to a Dolphins team in need of cornerbacks. In his senior season at Montana, the 5-foot-10, 193-pounder played in eight games as a corner and safety.

Before using a pick on the 24-year-old, Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland wanted to know Wilson's character issues of the past were to stay that way. In 2007, Wilson was arrested in the shooting death of his aunt's boyfriend in California, but was acquitted after 25 months in jail.

"Did a ton of research on Jimmy," Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland told reporters after the draft. "I talked to the assistant chancellor there, I talked to the [AD], I talked to the head coach. Talking to some people that were associated with the whole investigation, I felt very comfortable with the decision. First and foremost has to be a good football player. The kid is an explosive hitter."

Wilson will join a slew of former Montana Grizzlies in the NFL as well as three in Miami. Last season, kicker Dan Carpenter, running back Lex Hilliard and offensive lineman Cory Procter were all listed on the Dolphins roster. Carpenter made the Pro Bowl roster for the team in 2010.


See my story here on Wilson and other UM seniors preparing for the draft.