Louisville has made history once again in 2013, this time of the somewhat dubious variety.
This weekend, U of L became the first program ever to not have a single player from a team which won a BCS game selected in that April's NFL Draft. Now a large chunk of that has to do with the fact that much of the Cardinals' talent in 2012 came from its freshmen, sophomore and junior classes, but it's also a little hard to believe that there are 255 pro prospects out there who are better than Adrian Bushell or Mario Benavides.
Now the draft dust has settled and three former Cardinals have signed free agent contracts.
Benavides, a four-year starter at center who did a masterful job filling the shoes left behind by current Buffalo Bills star Eric Wood, has signed with the Kansas City Chiefs. Kansas City is a pretty good situation for Benavides, as the Chiefs need to find a serviceable backup in case starter Rodney Hudson's injury issues flare up again. Ryan Lilja was Hudson's replacement last year, but he retired after the season. Don't be surprised if Mario makes this roster.
Bushell, the transfer from Florida who became a two-time All-Big East selection, is now an Oakland Raider. Bushell was rated among the best available undrafted players by nearly every scouting service, and has a chance to impress the folks in Oakland both at corner and on special teams.
Alex Kupper, the former walk-on from Trinity High School who became the guy Charlie Strong called the "most valuable lineman" on the team, is headed Houston to try and make the roster with the Texans. Kupper started 26 straight games to end his Cardinal career, and appeared at all five positions on the O-line.
Best of luck to all these guys over the next few months.