Through Edwards's program, 100 eighth-graders from the Cleveland Municipal School District will be offered scholarships for college tuition upon their graduation from high school, the National Football League said in a news release.

"The fundamentals of success can only be achieved through a quality education," Edwards, 24, said in a statement. "I am fortunate to be in a position where I can give back to create opportunities for young people."

The participating students, who will be mentored and tutored, must keep at least a 2.5 grade point average and accumulate at least 15 hours of community service each year. They will not be allowed any unexcused absences from school.

Edwards caught 93 passes for 1,396 yards and nine touchdowns in two seasons since being drafted out of the University of Michigan with the third pick of 2005 NFL draft.