CLEVELAND, Miss. - Delta State University senior defensive back Darren Gardenhire has signed a free agent contract with the Seattle Seahawks of the NFL. The Los Angeles, Calif., native was an All-Gulf South Conference and All-Super Region II selection this past season for the Statesmen.

"We are very excited for Darren Gardenhire and his family," DSU head coach Todd Cooley said. "Darren proved he was one of the top cover corners in the Gulf South Conference last year and he has the ability to have a long career in the NFL. We're thankful that coach Pete Carrol and the Seahawks have given him this opportunity."  

Gardenhire, a transfer from Montana State, made an immediate impact in the secondary. The Los Angeles, Calif., native, finished the year second in the GSC with four interceptions, including the game-sealing pick in the waning moments of the Heritage Bell Classic versus Mississippi College. In 10 games, Gardenhire recorded 34 tackles, 3.0 tackles-for-loss, defended 10 passes and intercepted four. He also averaged 17.2 yards per punt return with one returned for a touchdown.

Gardenhire will report to Seattle for off-season training.