Two Lumberjack football players spiral toward NFL

Two former Lumberjacks football players will have a shot at the NFL.

Former SFA offensive lineman Brock Pasteur recently signed with the Tennessee Titans, and former SFA running back Louie Runnels recently received a call from his agent telling him of an invitation to try out for the Green Bay Packers.

Pasteur transferred to SFA from Nebraska during his junior year for a better chance to showcase his talents. In his first year at SFA in 2006, he made second-team All-Southland Conference while playing in all 11 games and starting in 10 of them.

Pasteur will be following in his father's footsteps. Robert Pasteur also played in the NFL for the Kansas City Chiefs.

While at Nebraska, ESPN listed Pasteur as the seventh strongest college player. "Brock is a perfect example of what the NFL is looking for." SFA head football coach J.C. Harper said, "He works so hard and even benches up to 500 pounds which is unusual. We all knew he had a great chance of playing in the NFL when he was here." He provided blocks to pave the way for Runnels.

Runnels finished his college career with 2145 rushing yards for sixth place all time in school history. He finished 10th all time in total yards with 2576. During his junior year in 2005, Runnels earned second-team All-Southland Conference, playing in all 11 games and starting in the last three. He finished that season with an average of 70.8 yards per game.

Runnels earned first-team All-Southland Conference for the first time during his junior year when he rushed for 709 yards and six touchdowns and caught 18 passes for 188 yards. Plagued by injuries during his junior year, Runnels wasn't able to display his talents to his full ability, but he says he won't let that stand in his way.

"I work hard and fight through adversity," Runnels said. "I've always wanted to play in the NFL ever since I was a little kid. When I got hurt, I knew it would be harder, but I wasn't going to give up on it."

Runnels is confident about what he can bring to the table. He said he's excited for a chance to play at Lambeau Field and about the opportunity to help develop Aaron Rodgers. "I could help with protection," Runnels said. "I can do whatever they need me to do. I can run, catch block or play special teams. I'm willing to do whatever it takes."

Runnels reflected on his career at SFA and said, "We work hard and fight through adversity to prove our critics wrong." He said, "We had a bad year, but everyone has bad years. It's just a rebuilding time."

"It didn't surprise me to hear about Louie at all." Harper said, "He's a hard runner who plays with strength and power. Obviously, we would have had more success last year if it weren't for his injuries, but he still persevered. I'm really happy for him."

Runnels will report to camp on Thursday for the beginning of Packers mini-camp.

nhague@thepinelog.com