Lauter and 6 Other Aztecs Cling to Draft Hopes

For years, Steve Lauter has longed for a chance to play in the National Football League.

Lauter, a San Diego State free safety in 1986, may soon receive that opportunity. He is expected to be chosen in Tuesday’s NFL draft.

“It has been a long couple of months just waiting and waiting and waiting,” Lauter said. “It’s something you’ve wanted since you were a kid, and it’s finally coming.”

Lauter, who is 6-feet 1-inch and 195 pounds, helped his cause by playing well in the Holiday Bowl and Senior Bowl.

According to Lauter, four teams have expressed the most interest in him--Atlanta, Buffalo, Dallas and the Rams.

Ron Nay, director of scouting for the Chargers, said he expects Lauter to be selected late in the draft.

Several other Aztecs are considered possible selections Tuesday:

Richard Brown, linebacker (6-2, 235)--He was the team’s third-leading tackler and tied for third in sacks. He started two seasons and part of a third and likely will be drafted in the later rounds or signed as a free agent.

Anthony Conyers, wide receiver (6-2, 180)--He was SDSU’s clutch receiver; he made four catches in a last-minute 86-yard touchdown drive that beat Colorado State. He had 27 receptions for 507 yards and 3 touchdowns. His draft status could be affected by the fact that he tested positive for cocaine and was not allowed to play in the Holiday Bowl.

Levi Esene, defensive tackle (5-11, 260)--He led the team in sacks and was fourth in tackles. He may be considered too small for the pros, though he could sign as a free agent.

Corey Gilmore, running back (6-1, 205)--He led the Aztecs in receiving and was second in rushing. He caught 48 passes for 325 yards and a touchdown and rushed 103 times for 452 yards and a touchdown. He is expected to be drafted in the middle to late rounds. His father, Art, played with the Dallas Cowboys, New York Titans and Denver Broncos from 1962-64.

Chris Hardy, running back (5-9, 175)--He led SDSU in rushing and was third in receiving. He rushed 237 times for 1,108 yards and 12 touchdowns and caught 36 passes for 287 yards. He may be considered too small by some teams but is expected to be drafted in the later rounds or signed as a free agent.

Randy Kirk, linebacker (6-2, 225)--He led SDSU in tackles. A walk-on until his senior year, he likely will be signed as a free agent.