NEWPORT NEWS, VA- Former Christopher Newport University standout Rob Rodriguez has been invited to take part in the Kansas City Chiefs rookie and free agent mini-camp.

Rodriguez, who played defensive back and special teams for the Captains from 2003 to 2006, was contacted by the club on Tuesday night and flew to Kansas City Wednesday morning to begin workouts. The mini-camp runs through Sunday at the Chiefs complex.

He becomes the first former CNU player to take part in an NFL camp in the seven-year history of the program. Rodriguez is expected to graduate from Christopher Newport next month.

“Rob had a phenomenal career at Christopher Newport and has continued to work hard,” CNU head coach Matt Kelchner said. “To get an opportunity like this is terrific. I can't tell you how happy I am for Rob.” 

Rodriguez, a native of Virginia Beach and graduate of Kempsville High School, achieved All-America status as a Captain. He played in the Aztec Bowl, an all-star game in Mexico held after his senior season. He was also selected to play on the first-ever United States national football team and played in the World Cup for American Football in Tokyo, Japan.

Prior to his senior season, Rodriguez was selected the first-ever team captain in the history of the Christopher Newport football program.

Rodriguez was named the USA South Athletic Conference's defensive Player of the Year in 2005, and was a first-team all conference selection in 2006. He blocked 10 kicks in his CNU career, a school record, and made nine career interceptions. He also scored four touchdowns in his remarkable Christopher Newport career.