April 28, 1998

Two integral members of Villanova's magical 1997 football season will continue their football careers at the next level. Wide receivers Brian Finneran and Josh Dolbin have both signed pro contracts, with Finneran now the property of the Seattle Seahawks and Dolbin a member of the Philadelphia Eagles.

The 6-5 foot Finneran finished his career on the Main Line as the top receiver in Villanova history. He finished his career with 18 school records, including career receptions (265), career receiving yards (3,872) and career touchdowns (34). Last season, Finneran made a school record 96 receptions for a school-best 1,389 yards and school record 19 touchdowns.

"A few different teams called us after the draft," said Finneran. "There were several factors we had to consider. Things like who each team drafted, which free agents they picked up, why type of receivers they had and the style of offense they run. Also, I had to decide which team would best fit my style of life. When we considered all the options, Seattle looked to be the best fit."

Dolbin, the son of former Denver Bronco and Chicago Bear wide receiver Jack Dolbin, finished his career on the Main Line as Villanova's third all-time leading receiver (175 career receptions) and fourth on the Villanova all-time receiving yards list (2,657 yards). As a senior in 1997, Dolbin made 63 receptions for 938 yards and five touchdowns.

Together, Finneran and Dolbin led Villanova to a perfect 11-0 regular season and the No.1 national ranking for six consecutive weeks. The Atlantic 10 champion Wildcats advanced to the NCAA quarterfinals where they fell to eventual National Champion Youngstown State.