Victor Hampton signs rookie deal with Cincinnati Bengals

The wait is over for former South Carolina Gamecocks cornerback Victor Hampton.

Hampton, who sat through the NFL Draft without having his named called and kept holding out hope that a professional team would finally come calling, has signed a contract with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Hampton said of the signing on Instagram:

"Home sweet home been along time coming kept the faith kept grinding now time to work what it do #BengalsNation"

It’s been a long and winding road for Hampton, and Gamecocks fans are well aware of that road. His draft stock was undoubtedly hurt by his off the field miscues–including an April arrest and being questioned about the events of a brawl at an New York City club (which he was ultimately found to not have a role in). But he’s finally gotten what he’s been awaiting for several weeks: a shot at the next level. The next step: proving himself among his future teammates, and, most importantly, keeping himself focused and out of trouble.

Be sure to check out our sister site, Stripe Hype, for more coverage on this signing over the next few days.