Danny Amendola And Rob Gronkowski Deliver Texas Tech Walk-On News He’s On Scholarship

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Kliff Kinsbury and Texas Tech got a steal with sophomore defensive back Justus Parker.

Before Sunday, Parker was paying the full $23,129 to attend Texas Tech, just like your average joe. Parker began his career at Division-III Texas Lutheran before transferring to Texas Tech and walking on. Fast forward to today, and the dude is one of the top players in the Big 12.

Parker recorded 42 total tackles, a fumble recovery for a touchdown, and led the team in interceptions with four–most notably picking off Texas quarterback Sam Ehlinger in the fourth quarter of Texas Tech’s 27-23 win. Many believe this play single-handedly saved Kliff Kingsbury’s job. Parker has played in all 12 of the Red Raiders’ games, starting six.

In short, a scholarship was long overdue for the Second-Team All-Big 12 walk on.

Kliff Kingsbury recruited Texas Tech great and current New England Patriots wide receiver Danny Amendola to deliver the 6’0”, 209 lb. safety the news.

Amendola told the kid that he admired his play on the field before inviting a friend to participate in the breaking news. “My boy wants to tell you something,” Amendola said, and he turned the camera to a smiling Gronk, who just reeled in a career-high 168 yards in the Patriots win against the Steelers.

“What’s up, man — congratulations, you’re on scholarship!” Gronkowski joyously yelled into the camera.

Texas Tech plays South Florida in the Birmingham Bowl this Saturday.

[h/t Boston.com]