Fifth year veteran receiver Zakariya Karim recently signed a free agent contract with the Ottawa Redblacks of the Canadian Football League (CFL). The 5'11", 181-pound X-Men co-captain from Ottawa was an AUS offensive all-star this past season.
X-Men head coach Gary Waterman commented, "We were very excited to get the news of Zak's signing. Despite not getting selected in the CFL draft he used his disappointment as motivational fuel, and went right back to work. To see him get this opportunity now should serve as a reminder to everyone about the importance of never giving up and staying ready."
Karim wrapped up his fifth and final year of eligibility with the two-time defending champion X-Men this past fall. He was fourth overall in AUS conference receiving, averaging 47.4 yards/game. He had 24 receptions for 379 yards, averaging 15.8 yards/catch and scored three touchdowns. Karim was second in the AUS with 812 all-purpose yards as he also contributed 248 punt return and 167 kick return yards on special teams, along with 18 rushing yards.
