Proving that football dreams do not come with expiration dates, former University of Hawai'i linebacker Brashton Satele yesterday signed a free-agent contract with the New York Jets.

It was a standard three-year contract for an undrafted free agent.

Satele, who missed the Warriors' 2009 season after undergoing shoulder surgery, did not receive a signing bonus — a factor that was not a factor.

"That does not matter," agent Kenny Zuckerman said. "This is an opportunity to make an NFL team."

Satele said: "I'm fortunate to be on any team. Two weeks ago, I wasn't on any team."

That was a reference to the NCAA's denial of Satele's appeal for a medical exemption that would have allowed him to play for UH as a sixth-year senior in 2010. Satele had argued he met the criteria of missing two seasons (2005 and 2009) because of injuries. In its ruling, the NCAA insisted that Satele did not have enough contemporaneous documentation — notes written by doctors in 2005.

The ruling enabled Satele to be available as a free agent to National Football League teams.

After the NFL draft last week, Satele reached agreement on a free-agent deal with the Oakland Raiders. Satele signed the free-agent contract. But two days before he was set to report to mini-camp, Satele learned the Raiders did not "execute the contract" after receiving a faxed copy of the signed document.

That left Satele free to accept a tryout with the Jets this past weekend.

Satele reportedly played well during the mini-camp, which involved double practices Friday and Saturday, and a single workout yesterday.

"I haven't played for a year, but I didn't lose a step," Satele said. "Coming into the situation, I knew I was ready for the physical part. The mental part, I was wondering if I still had it."

Apparently Satele showed enough to warrant a contract. He has been invited to return May 16 to the Offseason Team Activities, which, in essence, is another mini-camp.

The Jets, who attack out of a 3-4 alignment, are looking to add depth behind starting inside linebackers David Harris and Bart Scott.

"Those are two great guys to learn from," said Satele, who also will be used on special teams.

Meanwhile, former UH offensive tackle Aaron Kia said he does not expect to be signed by the San Francisco 49ers. Kia was invited to participate in the 49ers' mini-camp the past weekend. He competed at guard and center.

"It was good exposure," Kia said. "But as far as a job, the chances are slim."

Former Warrior defensive tackle Rocky Savaiigaea, who also participated in the 49ers' mini-camp, said he will learn today whether he receives a free-agent offer. Savaiigaea was the only rookie nose tackle invited to workouts.

Visit Tsai's blog at http://warriorbeat.honadvblogs.com.