Defensive back Juantarious Bryant did not hear his name called during the three-day NFL draft earlier in the month, and was among the free-agent rookies tying to latch on a team for the summer, with hopes of making the starting roster come Fall (Fox).

The former Austin Peay defensive back revealed Saturday that he fell victim to a hoax. He said someone “posed” as the Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Dean Pees and invited him to rookie minicamp during the week; the offer was “too good to be true” (Fox).

Bryant stated, “I did not realize it was not a legit opportunity until I traveled to the facility for rookie minicamp check in on Wednesday, May 12. It’s most definitely one of the most embarrassing things that has ever happened to me, and a very humbling experience. “Just want to apologize to everyone in the Atlanta Falcons organization for the mix-up. I honestly thought it was a legit opportunity on my end” (Fox).

He continued with “I do not know or understand why this happened, but I do know that everything happens for a reason. Yes, this was heartbreaking for me, but just another stepping stone that I am not afraid to admit or overcome. At the end of the day, this will not make or break me. I will still continue to fight for my dreams because I know it’s what I really want. I’m still striving and still in the best shape of my live. When the opportunity presents itself, I will be ready” (Fox).

The Falcons have not commented on the alleged hoax as of yet.