McNeese’s Jamal Pettigrew signs with Rams, Chambers invited to Colts tryout

LAKE CHARLES – Former McNeese tight end standout Jamal Pettigrew got the call he’d been waiting for at the conclusion of the 2022 NFL Draft.

Pettigrew signed an undrafted free agent contract with the defending Super Bowl Champion Los Angeles Rams while two-time consensus All-American defensive end Isaiah Chambers has accepted an invitation by the Indianapolis Colts for a rookie minicamp tryout.

Even though neither heard his named called during the three-day, seven-round draft, Pettigrew says the most important thing is getting the chance to advance his career.

“Obviously, you dream to hear your name called,” he said, “but to be able to sign a contract in the NFL is a dream come true no matter if it’s during the draft or right after.”

Pettigrew said he knew late in the draft the Rams would be giving him a call if he wasn’t selected in the draft by another team.

“My agent made me aware early in the seventh round that the Rams wanted me,” said the tight end who played two seasons at McNeese after transferring from LSU. “I’ve been in contact with them (Rams) for the last three weeks so I knew they had a lot of interest.

“It’s exciting to sign with the defending Super Bowl champions but my focus is to continue to work hard and prove what I have to do to make the team.”

Pettigrew will leave for Los Angeles on May 13 to prepare for the rookie mini-camp and OTAs.