TULANE: Begins his first playing season... enters fall camp as the backup at center.

2007 (FRESHMAN): Did not play; received a red-shirt season.

HIGH SCHOOL: A three-year letterman at St. Thomas High where he played offensive guard and tackle, tight end and defensive tackle for coach Kurt Page... named first-team all-state and All-District 3-6A his final two prep seasons and helped the Eagles advance to the state semifinals as a junior... earned Hatnett Award as a senior, which is awarded annually by St. Thomas to honor the student-athlete who best defines courage, dedication and leadership... also lettered in wrestling and track and field.

PERSONAL: An accounting major... born Joseph William Ray on May 10, 1989, in Tomball, Texas... one of four children of Jim and Therese Ray.