2014 AFL Defensive Lineman of the Year Returns to Spokane
November 24, 2014 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Spokane Shock News Release
SPOKANE, Wash. (November 24, 2014) - The Shock have been assigned defensive lineman James Ruffin to the 2015 roster.
Ruffin (6-4, 265, Northern Iowa) rejoins the Shock for his third season as a member of the Arena Football League. During the 2014 season, Ruffin registered 38.5 tackles and led the league with a single-season franchise-record 14 sacks on his way to earning First Team All-Arena honors and being named the 2014 AFL Defensive Lineman of the year. Ruffin's performance in 2014 also positioned him as Spokane's all-time leader in sacks, totaling 26 over his three-year career.
Prior to joining the Shock in 2012, Ruffin played his collegiate career at Northern Iowa where he saw action in 35 games and totaled 109 tackles. He has also spent time with the NFL's Cincinnati Bengals and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
"There aren't many players out there, at any level, like James Ruffin," said Head Coach Andy Olson. "During his time here in Spokane he has been a model example of what it means to be a leader both on the field and in our community. His work ethic and dedication is second to none and we're very excited to welcome him back to the Shock family for the 2015 season."
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