Brevard County's only college football team has its first player signed to an NFL team, and he's heading back home.
- Gabe Hughes is 1st Florida Tech player to sign with NFL team
- Hughes, a tight end, was undrafted free agent
- He grew up near Miami Dolphins stadium
It's plays like snagging an 80-yard touchdown pass that got Florida Tech tight end Gabe Hughes notoriety on the football field for the past three seasons.
Showing off his speed on one of his two longest receptions in school history and a strong work ethic didn't hurt, either.
Hughes found out this past weekend that his dream was coming true when he was signed by the Miami Dolphins.
"As soon as it happened, we were excited and happy. It didn't sink in right away," Hughes said.
The Dolphins are his hometown team. He grew up in Lighthouse Point, just 30 minutes away from the team's stadium.
Hughes is now trading crimson and gray for blue and orange.
"All the guys have been texting me to say congratulations, along with a billion other people," Hughes said. Those guys are his Florida Tech teammates.
They and the school are extra pumped as Hughes is now the first player in FIT history to sign an NFL contract.
The undrafted free agent wants to make everyone involved in this young football program proud.
"It kind of opens up the door, makes it known that there's guys in here that have the opportunity and talent to play at the next level," Hughes said.
What's next for Hughes? He's headed to south Florida for the Dolphins' mini-camp that begins Thursday. That's where he will play hard and try to make the roster for this season.
The Dolphins are Florida Tech tight end Gabe Hughes' hometown team. He grew up in Lighthouse Point, just 30 minutes away from the team's stadium. (Amanda Stratford)