SAN ANTONIO – Texas Tech walk-on defensive back and former La Vernia High School standout Justus Parker received a surprise football scholarship on Monday with the help of New England Patriots players Danny Amendola and all-pro Rob Gronkowski.
Parker played in all 12 games for the Red Raiders this season and is sixth on the team in tackles. He was also named to the All-Big 12 Second Team.
Tech head coach Kliff Kingsbury posted video on Twitter of Parker getting his scholarship while surrounded by his teammates and coaches.
Amendola, a former Texas Tech star, and Gronkowski personally delivered the news to Parker in the video. The video shows Parker get emotional upon hearing the good news.
Parker transferred to Texas Tech after playing one season at Texas Lutheran in Seguin.
According to the Texas Tech athletics website, Parker played both offense and defense while at La Vernia.
He helped lead the team to a 12-2 record and spot in the playoffs his junior year and then a 10-2 record during his senior season.
The video has gone viral. Check it out below.
HUGE thanks to @DannyAmendola and @RobGronkowski for having a special part in making a dream come true for @justus_parker. #chills #PatriotWay #WreckEm pic.twitter.com/qJJZwdeeEW
— Kliff Kingsbury (@KliffKingsbury) December 18, 2017