ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — University of New Mexico offensive linemen Dillon Farrell and Darryl Johnson have signed free-agent contracts with NFL teams.
Farrell, a three-time Rimington Award Watch List nominee and two-time All-Mountain West honorable mention, has signed with the San Francisco 49ers.
Farrell started 46 career games with the Lobos, including 36 at center. The 6-foot-5, 300-pound native of Baton Rouge, La., was a team captain.
“I’m excited to play for such a championship-caliber organization as the 49ers,” Farrell said. “I can’t wait to help in whatever role I can.
“It’s an honor to be able to represent the University of New Mexico, not just in the NFL, but in every facet of life.”
Johnson signed a free-agent contract with the San Diego Chargers.
The 6-4, 308-pound Johnson, also from Baton Rouge, started 38 games during his UNM career; he spent 2014 at left tackle. “Baby D” also is a two-time All-MW honorable mention.
The two were key members of a Lobo offensive line that led the unit to consecutive top-five national finishes in rushing offense. UNM was No. 5 in 2012 with an average of 301.3 yards per game.
In 2013, the Lobos were fourth in the country with an average of 308.8 yards per game and set a school record with a 6.14-yard per carry average.