Bucs' Funderburk 'Excited' to Fulfill 'Lifelong Dream'

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed cornerback Tyrek Funderburk in May, and the undrafted free agent from Appalachian State is confident in his ability to make an impact and is proud of how far he has come.

Funderburk could be a name to keep an eye out going into preseason as he has turned heads at camp by making flashy plays in the secondary.

Funderburk, scouts say, has a really high football IQ, and has the ability to put himself in good position to make plays on the ball. This was shown in Thursday's practice after a crafty pass breakup.

He also spoke to the media following practice on Thursday to talk about how far he has come as a player:

"It's a lifelong dream of mine to play at this level and be in the NFL and it came fast," said Funderburk. "I remember getting the call back in April and we are already here in the first preseason game. I am excited."

Funderburk also mentioned how beneficial it has been to have many veteran mentors like cornerbacks Jamel Dean and Zyon McCollum. With a scheme that is as tricky as head coach Todd Bowles' system, it's important for young players like Funderburk to learn the defense from the older guys on that side of the ball.

Related: Tom Brady Pens Heartfelt Love Letter After Olympics Trip With Daughter

The Buccaneers first unofficial depth chart has Funderburk listed behind both Dean and McCollum, but neither will play in the Buccaneers first preseason game, so it's likely that we will see Funderburk get some game action for the first time as a Buc.