Fmr. Air Force Star Hall Tries Out With Falcons

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) -- Chad Hall has a dual career in mind. He wants to serve his country, but he also dreams of playing professional football.

The former Air Force Academy star hopes he made a big impression on the Falcons coaches -- and that they have a long memory.

Hall was among a handful of players participating in Atlanta's three-day minicamp on a tryout basis.

An Air Force spokesman said the former prep standout at Wesleyan High School in Norcross must serve at least two years before he has a chance to be granted permission by the Air Force to pursue an NFL career.

Hall's college numbers were impressive. He was the only player in the nation last season to lead his team in rushing and receiving. He ranked third in the nation in all-purpose yards.

But Hall, at least by NFL standards, is small. The Falcons list the running back at only 5-foot-7 and 179 pounds.

Falcons coach Mike Smith said Hall's best shot with the team is as a return specialist.

The other players in camp on a tryout basis included Georgia receiver A.J. Bryant and Georgia Tech safety Jamal Lewis. They will learn this week whether they will be invited back.