MASON Fletcher, the son of Essendon legend Dustin, will begin his journey to the NFL after landing a college football scholarship in the USA.
Fletcher, 20, has signed with the University of Cincinnati as a punter in the hope of impressing NFL scouts for a professional contract in coming years.
"Over the moon to announce I have accepted a full scholarship to study and play football for the University of Cincinnati," Fletcher said on Friday.
The former AFL draft hopeful quit footy last year to take up punting with the ProKick Australia program under the tutelage of former AFL player turned NFL punter Nathan Chapman.
Over the moon to announce I have accepted a full scholarship to study and play football at the University of Cincinnati!! Keen to get to work!! @GoBearcatsFB #CinCityPride pic.twitter.com/8a4aSKEUl3
— Mason Fletcher (@MasonFletcher19) May 14, 2020
After a series of back injuries, the 200cm backman opted not to pursue an AFL contract with the Bombers in 2018 before training with the Bombers last year.
Playing for Calder Cannons in the NAB League as an overage player last year, Fletcher consistently showed his ability to kick the Sherrin more than 60m.
Fletcher's move continues the long line of AFL aspirants who have made the switch to punting, including former WAFL player Jesse Mirco who signed with Ohio State earlier this month.
Former St Kilda player Arryn Siposs last month signed a deal to join the Detroit Lions in the NFL.
