For the second straight year the Hampton University Pirates has heard one of their defense players name called during the National Football League Draft. Defensive end Kendall Langford heard his name called Sunday morning during the 2008 NFL Draft with the third pick in the third round, No. 66 overall, by the Miami Dolphins.

Langford played in all 11 games for the Pirates (6-5) last season, leading the team with 72 tackles. He had a team high 13.5 tackles for losses and tied teammate Marcus Dixon for the team lead in sacks with six.

Langford also intercepted one pass, forced two fumbles and blocked one field goal.

“I wanted to go to Miami because I felt the team had a lot to offer me and because of the location... it’s beautiful down there,” Langford said. “I feel like I can go to Miami, show my ability and be an asset to the team.”

The Petersburg, Va. native finished his collegiate career with 236 tackles, good enough for fifth in school history. He also recorded 24.5 sacks.

Prior to the announcement, the 6-foot-6 defensive end wasn’t sure where he would be drafted, admitting to being nervous when his name wasn’t called in the first two rounds on Saturday. But he kept hearing that he would indeed be picked, so Langford continued watching.

“I have to thank God, my family and my mentors for getting me to where I am today,” Langford said. “This is like a dream come true, man...for real. I’m still soaking all this in. I’m excited.”