SAN ANGELO, Texas – Former Angelo State football player C.J. Akins signed an free agent deal with the St. Louis Rams to continue his football career.

“It means a lot to live out my childhood dream that most people don't get to,” Akins said of signing. “I'm very excited to be putting on a NFL helmet and if it wasn't for God none of this would be possible.”

Akins caught 2,089 yards receiving and 15 touchdowns in his four years at Angelo State. He is the fifth wide receiver in school history to surpass 2,000 yards receiving. Akins is second in program history with eight career 100-yard receiving games.

As a senior, Akins was the team leader in receiving yards with 748. He caught 48 passes and seven touchdowns while averaging 16.3 yards per catch.

“We're excited for C.J. and the opportunity to continue his career at the highest level,” Angelo State head football coach Will Wagner said. “Every kid dreams of playing in the NFL and now C.J. has a chance to turn his dream into a reality.  We are proud of him and look forward to watching him on Sundays.”