A former walk-on who has steadily improved throughout his career and made his debut in the starting lineup last season...Began his career as a long-snapper and special teams star.

2004: Started all 12 games and finished fourth on the team in tackles (57)...Named First-Team Gateway Conference All-Academic team.

2003: Played in all 12 games...In addition to special teams, saw action at linebacker and recorded tackles in eight games.

2002: Played in all 12 games...The team's long snapper.

High School: An all-conference linebacker his junior and senior seasons...MVP of the 2002 East-West all-star game...Recorded 93 tackles his senior year and also averaged 20.0 yards per catch at tight end...An all-conference performer in baseball and track.

Worth Knowing: Majoring in history...Son of Anthony and Peggy Rinella...Born November 28, 1983.