Valdosta State former offensive guard Edmund Kugbila was selected by the Carolina Panthers in the fourth round (108^th overall pick) of the 2013 NFL Draft on Saturday.

Kugbila becomes the first Blazer drafted since 1997 and the highest drafted player in VSU history.

“It feels amazing,” Kugbila said. “I’m just so blessed right now, God just working magic. I can’t describe the feeling but it’s a honor because so many greats come out of VSU. Jessie Tuggle, Larry Dean, all those guys, to be drafted over them says a lot.”

Kugbila was back home in Atlanta with family and friends when he received a phone call from Panthers head coach Ron Rivera.

Several draft experts were expecting the Panthers to address the secondary with their 11^th pick instead left many shocked including Kugbila.

“Throughout this whole process you never know where you’re going to go,” Kugbila said.

The 6’4, 317 pound guard worked out with Panthers as well as the Atlanta Falcons, Cleveland Browns, and Indianapolis Colts.

Kugbila joins the only other Blazer in the league, undrafted Minnesota Vikings linebacker Larry Dean.

He travels to Charlotte, N.C. on May 9^th for rookie camp.

“I’m ready to be in Carolina and get to work,” Kugbila said. “Just having another opportunity to play football again that’s what I’m thankful for.”

This article was written by Eric Jackson.