Former Southern Illinois U. running back Deji Karim has signed a four-year deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The Jaguars selected Karim in the sixth round of the 2010 draft. Karim played two seasons with SIU. Last year as a Saluki, Karim rushed for 18 touchdowns and 1,694 yards. Karim said he could not disclose the terms of the contract.

Karim said it was a great feeling to sign his first NFL contract, but he is glad to move on to the next stage of his career into professional football.

“It feels good to have the contract, but I’m glad its over with so now I can focus on playing football,” Karim said.