Less than 24 hours after being passed over for the 2024 NFL Draft, linebacker Geoffrey Cantin-Arku got what he had wanted for years.
The Miami Dolphins will finally give him a chance. The athlete from Charny will report to the organization’s rookie camp on May 10.
News that relieves the 6’3” and 240 lb player.
“It’s a lot better than yesterday. [samedi] evening, there is no doubt about it! My agent remained in contact with several teams this evening and this morning [dimanche], the Dolphins called and asked if I would like to join them. »
The San Francisco 49ers were also in the running to give Cantin-Arku a tryout and after a brief discussion with his agent Joey Atkins, he decided to take the Florida team’s offer.
PHOTO JOCELYN RIENDEAU, THE SUN
Geoffrey Cantin-Arku
“I like the fact that the Dolphins run a 3-4 defense. They have a lot of players who can play on the ends, but few like me who can play inside. I also believe that my size will help me with their style of play.”
Very aware that he will have to prove his value on special teams initially, Cantin-Arku is simply happy to have an opportunity to realize his dream.
“I have been playing football since I was 10 years old. I’ve been waiting for this moment for 14 years. I am relieved and know that the work has only just begun. For special teams, it doesn’t bother me at all. This has always been a strength in my game, and my biggest career play was on special teams last year against Boise State. »
Also advised by Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman and his friend Matthew Bergeron, Cantin-Arku assures that Bergeron would approve of his decision.
“I haven’t spoken to him since yesterday [samedi], where we exchanged a few texts. However, he had already spoken well of the Miami Dolphins to me and he believed that I would be a very good fit with them,” the 25-year-old prospect said with excitement.
So it’s time to get back to work for Cantin-Arku, who will be in Quebec until May 8, when he leaves for Miami. Cantin-Arku assures that he will spare no efforts until then.
“I will arrive in splendid shape. I didn’t get drafted and the only thing that changes is I don’t have a signing bonus. I wanted a chance and I got it. I’m going to make sure I don’t miss it,” concludes the man who still expects to go out in the first round of the CFL draft on Tuesday evening.
“In his DNA”
The head coach of the Aubier high school football program, Christian Pelletier, predicted what would happen to his former foal. The man who showed Cantin-Arku the basics of football was with him at the NFL draft on Saturday afternoon.
PHOTO JOCELYN RIENDEAU, THE SUN
Geoffrey Cantin-Arku and his ex-trainer Christian Pelletier
“I told him it would probably go through the free agent market and that’s what happened. I always inquire about what’s going on with him every step of the way, and he’s going to find a way to achieve his goal. I am very proud of what is happening to him. »
The coach never had any doubt that Cantin-Arku had what it took ever since he started playing football with him.
“It was in his DNA. He played every position and he was our best player no matter what position he played. He went through many obstacles to succeed in school, but his determination was always astounding.
“He is the most dedicated player to his sport who has been in our program in 24 years. No matter what happens, he’s going to play professional football next year! »