EX-INDIAN WITCZAK HOOKS UP WITH TITANS

Former Southeast Missouri State University football standout Jason Witczak is ready to put his best foot forward in an attempt to carve out an NFL career.

Witczak, who earned NCAA Division I-AA All-American honors as a punter during his only season at Southeast last year, has joined the Tennessee Titans as a free agent. The Titans began their training camp Friday in Nashville, Tenn.

"I'm really excited for this opportunity," said Witczak. "I'm fired up."

That wasn't the case up until just a few days ago, when it looked like the strong-legged Witczak would not get an opportunity to display his talents on the professional level.

"I'd been frustrated all summer because I worked real hard and I thought I was going to work something out with an NFL team, but nothing came through," he said. "I kept working and working and my agent was trying to get something going for me, but nobody was calling me back."

Until Tuesday, when Titans special teams coach Alan Lowry telephoned Witczak at his family's home in Wisconsin. Lowry wanted Witczak in Nashville as soon as possible for a workout. Things went well and Witczak was signed.

Witczak, who averaged an Ohio Valley Conference-leading 41.3 yards per punt for Southeast during the 2000 season, said the Titans have indicated he will be given an opportunity as a punter and kickoff specialist.

"I understand the kickoff job is open and they say I'll get a good look at it," he said.

Witczak realizes he's going to be facing some long odds as he tries to earn a spot with the Titans. But that's OK by him.

"I have a lot of confidence in what I can do and hopefully I can show them a lot," he said.