Former North Melbourne listed player Eric Wallace has signed with NFL side, Carolina Panthers.

Wallace, who grew up in North Carolina, spent three years on the Roos' list as an international rookie, but did not play a senior game.

The Panthers have signed Wallace as a tight end on their 90-man pre-season roster. He played College basketball before being signed by the Kangaroos.

"I grew up a Carolina fan," Wallace told the NFL side's website.

"Today, the dream came true."

"Coming back, the decision was whether I'd play basketball again or continue along the football path and put pads on again.

"It's surreal," he said.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 16: Eric Wallace Stretches during a North Melbourne Kangaroos AFL media session at Arden Street Ground on July 16, 2014 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Robert Prezioso/Getty Images)
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 16: Eric Wallace Stretches during a North Melbourne Kangaroos AFL media session at Arden Street Ground on July 16, 2014 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Robert Prezioso/Getty Images)

"I have size – you can't really teach size – and speed. I'm faster than I look. I'm a smooth athlete, pretty good with my hands."

Wallace revealed that his decision to try attend the US AFL combine, was based on a free trip to LA.

"I was like, ‘It's a free trip to L.A. Why not?' " Wallace said.

"Out of about 35 of us, three of us got invited to the real combine in Melbourne, Australia. Out of those three, North Melbourne signed me."

The 28-year-old Wallace stand at 197cm tall and weighs 102kg.

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