May 5, 2008

After a stellar career with the Hornets, Alabama State's Jay Peck has been invited to participate in mini-camp with the NFL's Cincinnati Bengals.

"It is a great opportunity to show what you can do against the very best players anywhere," Peck said. "I'm grateful to the Bengals staff and I'm excited to get to work."

Peck has been one of the nation's top rushers over the last two seasons, compiling more than 2,200 yards and two 1st team All-SWAC honors. Peck capped his career by being named the SWAC Offensive Player of the Year last season.

"I loved every minute of my time at ASU," Peck said. "I can't thank my coaches, my teammates, and my professors for all they have given me."

ASU head coach Reggie Barlow often pointed to Peck as an example of what a student-athlete should be. Barlow emphasized that Peck, a frequent speaker to youth groups, earned his undergraduate degree while also being a great player.

"Jay is just a guy who `gets it'", Barlow said. "When we as a coaching staff talk about the characteristics we want our players to have, we are describing Jay Peck."

Barlow, a former NFL star himself, believes Peck can compete with the best of the best.

"Jay can do a lot of things on the football field," Barlow said. "He can run, catch, and block. He'll be a great addition to any team."

For Peck, the opportunity with the Bengals is something of a homecoming. He played high school football in the very same state with Brookhaven High School in Columbus.