According to Lucas Tomlinson, the defense secretary plans to reverse course and allow undrafted rookie CB Cameron Kinley to attend training camp.
Tomlinson adds an official announcement from the Pentagon should be coming soon.
https://twitter.com/ck3thethrill/status/1412428727968047108
The U.S. Navy had previously denied Kinley’s request for a waiver to defer his service commitment and pursue a career in the NFL. It drew a fair amount of attention, including from Florida senator Marco Rubio, who wrote a letter to President Joe Biden asking him to intervene.
Greg Auman notes the U.S. armed forces have granted similar waivers to other players in the past, including as recently as last year with Dolphins WR Malcolm Perry, so this decision is a bit surprising.
“I made the commitment when I signed my contract before my junior year and I’m still willing to honor that commitment,” Kinley added. “I just want to be able to delay my commission to play in the NFL first and be that ambassador for the Navy and help recruit. And after my time in the NFL, go serve as an officer in the Navy. I’m definitely looking forward to that career.”
Jenna Laine writes that Kinley had a pick in rookie minicamp and drew praise from HC Bruce Arians, so it’s possible he would have a shot at making the team.
Kinley, 6-2 and 204 pounds, signed with the Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent out of Navy following the 2021 NFL Draft.
During his college career, Kinley recorded 88 total tackles, one sack, one forced fumble, one interception and 12 pass defenses in 27 career games.
We’ll have more on Kinley as the news is available.
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