Former University of Maine linebacker Stephen Cooper, a two-time Atlantic 10 Defensive Player of the Year, was one of five undrafted free agents to make the San Diego Chargers’ opening-day roster.

Cooper was listed as a back-up outside linebacker on the Chargers’ website.

Cooper was convicted of possessing illegal steroids last spring although he has denied ever using them.

Cooper will be one of two former Black Bears in action next weekend.

Six-year NFL veteran Mike Flynn is the starting center for the Baltimore Ravens.

Cooper and the Chargers will visit Kansas City next Sunday while Flynn and the Ravens will invade Pittsburgh.

Two other former Black Bears weren’t as fortunate.

Old Town’s Chad Hayes, a tight end, was released by the Tennessee Titans and wide receiver Phil McGeoghan was let go by the New York Jets this weekend.

NFL teams were required to reduce their rosters to 53 players by late Sunday afternoon.