The Next Level: Pirates in the Pros

This is a trial feature tracking news about former East Carolina athletes in the National Football League, Major League Baseball and other professional leagues. Bonesville will publish this feature from time to time until we can judge the reception by readers. If it proves to be popular we will make it a regular part of our content rotation at certain times of the year.

If you are an ex-ECU athlete pursuing a pay-for-play career, you are invited to keep us up to date on your progress by e-mailing Greg Vacek (greg.vacek@bonesville.net). Your communication to us will be kept confidential.

Lots of action this week as NFL teams decide on 53-man rosters and practice squads. Hyperlinked updates from news sources around the web.

Josh Hawkins continues to defy expectations as he makes 53-man roster of Green Bay Packers.  WATCH: Josh Hawkins snags second interception of preseason. … Giants’ Dwayne Harris: Records one preseason catch as injuries have hampered him this preseason. … Justin Hardy also suffered a minor ankle injury in Preseason Week 3.

Linval Joseph‘s Appetite for Disruption Affects Vikings Opponents and  stresses accountability in Minnesota’s run defense. … Rams completed their 10-player practice squad with the addition of tight end Bryce Williams.

C.J. Wilson: Cut by Saints on Tuesday. … Don’t know what the Swamp Monster has to do in order to make the team and Bears inform first 3 players of their release, including Terry Williams.

From the CFL, Michael Brooks will be in the BC Lions lineup for the first time since Week 6.

Harold Varner III’s clutch birdie on No. 7 at PGA’s Deutsche Bank.  Varner seizing opportunity at Deutsche Bank. … In April, Jada Payne  signed a WNBA Training Camp Contract but now the former East Carolina women’s basketball standout will continue her professional career playing for A.S. Ramat Hasharon Electra in Israel.

Jharel Cotton promoted by A’s.  ‘Dream finally coming true’ for Oakland’s Cotton. … Mike Wright earns season ending win in Norfolk Tides 7-1 rout of Durham .  … Cardinals’ Seth Maness: Transferred to 60-day DL.

With his long hair, goggles and ’90s-style tight pants, Jeff Hoffman is the next MLB fashion icon.    Hoffman making his third career start, allowed two runs and was in line for his first big league win before the bullpen had a meltdown.  Hoffman shows promise in second start, but Rockies’ slide continues.

Padres’ Minor League Pitcher Seth Simmons is an Interesting Story. … Indians’ Shawn Armstrong: Optioned August 31st. … Video scouting report: Giants pitcher Chris Heston’s rehab start.  … Jack Reinheimer doubled and singled twice, driving in a run and also scoring one as Reno Aces fall in season finale.  Arizona Diamondbacks Jack Reinheimer Showing Promise. … David Lucroy looking to make a name for himself in pro ball. …

Hillsboro Hops catcher Luke Lowery named to Northwest League year-end All-Star team. … Reid Love Stymies ‘Hoppers, Shorebirds Win Eighth Straight.  In six starts since Aug. 1, Love is 3-2 with an ERA of 1.89. Over 38 innings, he has walked three and fanned 18. … The 66ers extended their lead in the seventh inning when Zach Houchins hit a two-run double.

Sam Narron will be one of the three pitching coaches invited to Arizona Fall League. … Clayton McCullough – moving young minor league players along.

Parenting an All-Star: Perspective From Mike Trout and His Mom.  Angels’ Mike Trout shaken after ‘scary’ car accident on 55 freeway.