ASHBURN — Quarterback Mike Kafka considers himself "blessed" for signing with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday.
The former St. Rita High School and Northwestern University star inked a deal with the Bucs, according to his agent, Mike McCartney.
"I'm very blessed right now that I have another opportunity to play the game I love," Kafka told DNAinfo Chicago. "Any time you have an opportunity to play football, it's a great feeling."
The Chicago native was selected by Philadelphia in the fourth round of the 2010 NFL draft and played two seasons as the Eagles' backup. He also was signed and then released by the New England Patriots and waived by the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Kafka said he fielded interest from other NFL teams, but the Buccaneers were the "best fit."
"Tampa was obviously the best fit and best connection with the coaching staff and personnel there," said Kafka, who currently is in Phoenix training for upcoming mini-camps.
"Once I get with the receivers and kind of start learning their timing, that's probably the most important thing for me to learn," Kafka said.
Kafka, who has attempted 16 career NFL passes, is likely to compete for the No. 3 quarterback spot in Tampa, according to ESPN.com.
At Northwestern, Kafka threw for 4,265 career yards and 19 touchdowns.
At St. Rita, Kafka won three conference championships and compiled a 35-8 overall record. As a senior in 2004, he accumulated 1,816 total yards with 16 touchdowns.
"It is great to hear that Mike has another opportunity to continue his career in the NFL," St. Rita head coach Todd Kuska said. "It is a true testament to his desire and determination to succeed at that level that he has another opportunity. I am extremely proud of Mike and I look forward to watching him play for the Tampa Bay Bucs."
Said Kafka: "I'm proud to be from St. Rita and will continue to work hard and represent them."
