In 2007, Amherst native James Ihedigbo signed as an undrafted free agent with the New York Jets.
That was just the start of a long NFL career that included back-to-back Super Bowl appearances and one Super Bowl ring over 11 years for the now-retired safety.
Taj-Amir Torres is beginning his professional career much the same way.
The Amherst native signed with the Tennessee Titans as an undrafted free agent. The Titans made the announcement official on Thursday, two days before their rookie minicamp was scheduled to begin.
Torres, who was a state champion sprinter at Amherst Regional, took his speed to Boston College in 2015. The cornerback’s four-year career came to a close at the First Responder Bowl in December.
The Eagles were scheduled to play Boise State at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, however, lightning forced the cancellation of the game.
Torres played 49 career games for the Eagles. The 5-foot-9, 180-pound defensive back finished his career with 72 solo tackles, two sacks and five interceptions, including three during his senior year. He knocked down 21 passes, including 14 this past season.
Fellow Boston College cornerback Hamp Cheevers also signed with the Titans.
Cheevers and Torres were teammates with Boston College freshman offensive lineman Tyler Vrabel, who is the son of Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel.