Three former city-leagues stars accept NFL free-agent offers

Their names weren't called on TV, but at least their phones rang.

Three former city-leagues stars are about to get their NFL shot.

West Virginia guard Greg Isdaner (Episcopal Academy), who'd been projected by some to go as high as the fifth round, last night accepted a free-agent offer from the Dallas Cowboys.

Also, Syracuse running back Curtis "Boonah'' Brinkley (West Catholic), the leading rusher in city history for a season and career, said "yes'' to the San Diego Chargers.

Anthony Heygood, a linebacker from Cardinal O'Hara and Purdue, agreed to a deal with the Carolina Panthers.

Isdaner said he began hearing from Cowboys personnel during the later rounds.

"They said they were out of picks, but would be looking at me if they made a trade for one," Isdaner said. "They said if they couldn't get one, they'd love to have me as a free agent.

"In all, I heard from six, seven teams that expressed an interest [for free-agent purposes]. It seemed like the Cowboys wanted me the most.''

Of his long day and the final outcome, with his specific destination in mind, Isdaner said with a laugh, "I guess it all worked out . . . except that I'm from Philly.''

Albie Crosby, a West Catholic assistant, said he spoke last night with Brinkley's uncle and agent. Both said Brinkley had chosen San Diego over the Eagles and San Francisco 49ers.*