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Former Bull Kobel eager for chance with Jets

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By BRETT McMURPHY | The Tampa Tribune

Published: June 15, 2009

TAMPA - When former University of South Florida defensive end Craig Kobel was sidelined not once, but twice, with sports hernia surgeries, he admits it was hard to be optimistic about fulfilling his dream of playing in the NFL.

"I definitely wanted to come back [after the first surgery]," Kobel said. "But there were so many problems. I saw so many different doctors. I couldn't get it to heal."

Kobel, 27, is finally healthy again. Last week, he signed as a free agent with the New York Jets.

Kobel, who played at USF from 2001-04, said he got an opportunity with the Jets because of Scott Cohen, the Jets' assistant to the general manager. Cohen came to New York in 2008 after seven seasons as the Philadelphia Eagles' director of pro personnel. Kobel signed with the Eagles in January 2007.

"The Jets called me, I'm happy to come back in," Kobel said. "Everything has worked out good. I'm ready for round two."

Kobel owned the season school record with 19 tackles for loss in 2003 until some guy named George Selvie came along. Kobel is excited about his latest opportunity.

Kobel, along with former USF wide receiver Huey Whittaker, will report to the Jets training camp on July 27.

"I'm about as eager as you can get," Kobel said. "I had legit chance to make the Eagles and that went away [with the first injury].

"This is just a blessing. I don't take it for granted. I'm super excited. Everything is going well. I feel I'm playing at a high level."

Reporter Brett McMurphy can be reached at (813) 259-7928.

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