NMSU linebacker Terrill Hanks goes undrafted but signs with Dolphins

New Mexico State linebacker Terrill Hanks was not selected in the 2019 NFL Draft, but his representatives said on Twitter that he quickly signed an undrafted free agent deal with the Miami Dolphins. Hanks himself later confirmed that news in a tweet.

The Miami native was a four-year starter at strong side linebacker for the Aggies and recorded a total of 391 tackles in his career.

A converted safety, he also posted three consecutive seasons with 100+ tackles for NMSU. Hanks added 14 pass breakups, eight interceptions, and 11 sacks in his career in Las Cruces. He even had an interception return for a touchdown this past season against heated rival New Mexico.

Most draft experts believed Hanks could have possibly landed somewhere in the middle to late rounds, but they were split on exactly how high he could go.

Despite his prolific numbers, some were concerned about his 4.98 40-time at the NFL Combine. Hanks was hindered by a hamstring injury that day, and the linebacker chose not to run it again later at his pro day.

Hanks did get a lot of positive attention for his performance in the Senior Bowl, in which he recorded eight tackles.

Former NMSU wide receiver Jaleel Scott was the last Aggie selected just a year ago in the fourth round by the Baltimore Ravens.