For Ellis Hobbs, it’s a dream come true.

After four years of hard work on the field for the Cyclones, Hobbs is moving on, taking his talent to the National Football League.

Hobbs was taken in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft by the defending Super Bowl champion New England Patriots, going as the 84th pick overall.

“This shows that I’ve put a lot of hard work and dedication going in and doing my job,” Hobbs said from his home in Dallas. “It’s paid off in the end.”

The cornerback was Iowa State’s third-leading tackler in 2004, recording 71 stops in the Cyclones’ 12 games.

He also had five interceptions, including a pick that secured Iowa State’s victory over Miami of Ohio in the Independence Bowl.

He was a first-team all-Big 12 selection by both the conference coaches and media. During his four-year career at Iowa State, Hobbs had 209 tackles and nine interceptions. He also spent time returning kicks.

Hobbs was at his home in Texas when he received a phone call from New England.

“They called me and their scouting director let me know they were thinking of getting me,” Hobbs said. “They called back and confirmed they were taking me and then I talked to [New England head coach] Bill Belichick on the phone.

“Then my name crawled across the screen and I knew it was a done deal.”

Hobbs said he was also contacted by the New York Jets during the second round, but the team decided instead to take Justin Miller, a cornerback from Clemson.

In preparation for the draft, Hobbs worked out for the Patriots, who were impressed enough with what they saw to give him a chance on the highest level.

“This shows that I’m willing to do anything,” Hobbs said.

“If there is anything to do, I would have did it and more. I did a good job and did it to a high level.”

By winning three Super Bowls in the last four seasons, New England has set itself apart as an organization that places the team above all else.

“With them, it’s not about the individual, it’s about the team,” Hobbs said. “Those guys do a great job of getting guys who want to win.”

Even with a winning tradition, Hobbs said he is confident he can make an immediate impact with the team.

“Those guys wouldn’t pick me if I couldn’t have an impact and learn at a fast rate,” Hobbs said. “When I get in there, I expect to make a direct and fast impact.”

Although Hobbs was the only Cyclone to be selected in the draft, there are others still looking for a professional career.

Offensive lineman Cale Stubbe and defensive end Tyson Smith were not drafted but still have many options.

Both players are eligible to become free agents, allowing them to work out and sign with any team.

“I just have to wait and see what happens and see what teams I want to pick from and take a team that fits me best and become a free agent,” Stubbe said.

Stubbe said he has a list of teams that might be a good fit for his abilities.

“I thought there were a number of teams who liked what I did,” Stubbe said.

“I think I’ll be able to find a team to sign with.”

Five players were taken in the draft from the University of Iowa, led by defensive end Matt Roth who was selected with the 14th pick of the second round by Miami. Defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux was picked in the second round by Atlanta.

Safety Sean Considine, tight end Tony Jackson and offensive lineman Pete McMahon rounded out the Hawkeye selections.