April 28, 2009

Allendale, Mich. - Former Grand Valley State gridiron performers, Dan Skuta (LB) and Sam Allen (OT), have inked NFL free agent contracts with the Cincinnati Bengals and the San Diego Chargers, respectively. In addition, former Laker offensive lineman Brandon Barnes signed with Indianapolis Colts.

Skuta (6-3, 247), who signed a two-year deal with the Cincinnati, will participate in the Bengals' rookie mini-camp beginning Thursday in Cincinnati. Skuta was a four-year starter for the Lakers and left as the school's all-time leader in QB sacks (33.5). The two-time all-america honoree played linebacker and defensive line for the Lakers and finished his career third all-time in NCAA DII football QB sacks.

"The opportunity to continue my football career in the National Football League is something that I have always wanted to do and to now have that life-long dream come true with the Cincinnati Bengals is an incredible feeling," said Skuta.

Allen (6-5, 305) signed a two-year deal with the Chargers and will head to San Diego Thursday for the start of the Chargers' mini-camp that begins Friday. Allen was two-time All-GLIAC performer on the offensive line for GVSU.

"I am extremely excited to join the San Diego Charger organization," said Allen. "This is an incredible opportunity and now it is my job to make the most of it," added Allen.

Barnes concluded his career with the Lakers in 2007 and signed with the Baltimore Ravens. Barnes was playing in the Arena2 Football League with Green Bay after being released by Baltimore, but signed a two-year contract with the Indianapolis Colts.

Grand Valley State has had 12 players sign NFL contracts since 2001, including three that have been drafted. GVSU's Brandon Carr was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2008 and went on to start all 16 regular season games as a rookie.