Cowboys invite Rolovich to camp

By Stephen Tsai
Advertiser Staff Writer

Former UH quarterback Nick Rolovich says he's no longer a big fan of the 49ers, who passed on him in the draft. Advertiser library photo • Feb. 2, 2002

Yesterday, Rolovich accepted an invitation to compete in the Dallas Cowboy' rookie camp. He reports Thursday.

"It's a chance," Rolovich said. "That's all I wanted. I have three days to impress some people."

After producing an 8-1 record as a starter last season and passing for three touchdowns in the Hula Bowl, Rolovich expected to be drafted by the team he grew up idolizing — the San Francisco 49ers.

"They showed the most interest in me," Rolovich said.

But in Sunday's second day of the National Football League draft, the 49ers picked Brandon Doman, a former Brigham Young quarterback, in the fifth round.

"I was a little disappointed," Rolovich said. "I thought they would pick me."

Until yesterday, Rolovich said, the Cowboys had not been in contact since requesting a highlight video two months ago. Growing up in the Bay Area "as a Niner fan, I can't say I love Dallas," Rolovich said. "But I'm not too much of a Niner fan anymore."

Rolovich started his first game last season in Dallas, leading UH to a victory over Southern Methodist. "It will be great to go back there," he said. "I'm excited. I think it's a great situation for me."

The 6-foot-1, 200-pound Rolovich amassed 3,361 yards in total offense last year. He would have led the country in total offense per game except he was used for one play in a loss at Nevada. Rolovich finished fourth nationally in that category.