Prairie View A&M senior defensive end Adrian Hamilton won't have far to travel as he begins his professional football career as a member of the NFL's Dallas Cowboys.

Hamilton inked a free agent deal with the Cowboys this past weekend and will immediately hit the gridiron wearing the silver and blue as the team is slated to hold its first minicamp on Thursday in Irving, Texas.  Having the opportunity to play for the organization he idolized as a child will be 'a dream come true' for the Dallas native.

“I grew up watching Emmitt Smith, Michael Irvin and most recently DeMarcus Ware,” said Hamilton.  “I'm grateful for the chance to become a Cowboy and I'm preparing myself mentally and physically so I can live out this dream.”

Hamilton, who played at Dallas Carter High School, had several teams requesting his services but ultimately chose Dallas due to a need at his position.  With the Cowboys employing a 3-4 scheme, Hamilton will move to linebacker after a historic career as a defensive end at Prairie View A&M.

“Dallas is the perfect place for me as they had a couple of spots available at my position,” said Hamilton.  “I liked (defensive coordinator) Rob Ryan and their coaching staff when I went on my visit and I expressed to them how I wanted be apart of their organization.”

Prairie View A&M head coach Heishma Northern is elated Hamilton will have a chance to play at the next level.

“I'm very happy for him to have been signed by a NFL team,” said Northern.  “This is just the beginning of his professional career as he'll have alot of things he has to look out for.  I expect him to work very hard so he can make the most of his opportunity and I expect him to represent Prairie View A&M very well.”