Football Southern Conference

GSU's Wilcox Drafted By Dallas Cowboys

NEW YORK – Georgia Southern All-American J.J. Wilcox became the highest-ever NFL draftee in the history of the program when he was selected by Dallas in the third round Friday night.  Wilcox was the 80th overall selection, the Cowboys’ fourth of the NFL Draft, and first defensive pick.  Wilcox was second on the Eagles’ team in total tackles (88) and had two interceptions and three pass breakups in 2012 after spending the first three years as a productive member of the Eagle offense.

“Words can’t even explain my feelings right now,” said J.J. Wilcox from his parents’ home in Cairo, Ga. “My mom and dad, we just hugged each other and started crying. There are no guarantees, though. Just because you made it to this point, doesn’t mean you made it in. It’s just like coming in as a freshman, and I have to be prepared to grind.

“I’m headed somewhere new, but Georgia Southern means a lot to me, it’s been my home,” Wilcox said. “Everyone has been supportive of me and I want to thank everyone. Since I’ve made it to this point, we’ve all made it, my teammates – the brotherhood, our coaches, our students, the Eagle Nation, everyone.”

The NFL Network’s Mike Mayock chimed in on Wilcox during the broadcast, “I love J.J. Wilcox. The Cowboys needed a safety. He’ll compete for the starting job and ultimately he is a starting safety.”

Wilcox departs for Dallas first thing Saturday morning to join the team.