Former Falcons Atkinson, Benavides Address Current Team

Former LFHS football players Eloy Atkinson and Mario Benavides, both of whom signed free agent contracts with National Football League teams over the weekend, met with LFHS junior and sophomore players Monday.

Monday was the first day of spring workouts for 88 junior and sophomore players, who received a surprise treat of the visit by the two former Falcons.

Atkinson, a 2008 graduate of LFHS, received a scholarship to The University of Texas at El Paso, where he played four seasons on the offensive line, mainly at the center position. He received his bachelor’s degree in Business Management in December.

Benavides, also a 2008 graduate of LFHS, received a scholarship to The University of Louisville (Ky.), where he also played four years. He also played on the offensive line, and specialized at center as well. He also received his bachelor’s degree in December.

Neither Atkinson or Benavides were drafted by NFL teams during the draft April 25-27, but both received Free Agent offers. Atkinson was called upon by the Tennessee Titans Saturday and Benavides by the Kansas City Chiefs Sunday.

Both will be invited to camps and both know they will have to work hard to make their respective teams.

The two were introduced to the team by assistant coach Rene Morales, who was on the LFHS coaching staff when Atkinson and Benavides played with the Falcons.