Alfonzo placed on IR, Ladd back with Rush
May 13, 2004 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Chicago Rush News Release
The Chicago Rush lost another defensive back this week when X-rays revealed a fracture in WR/DB DeJuan Alfonzo's left hand. Alfonzo, who injured his hand making a tackle in Saturday night's 63-35 win at Grand Rapids, was placed on the AFL's injured reserve list and will miss a minimum of two games. To replace Alfonzo on the roster, the Rush signed WR/LB Anthony Ladd to a contract for the rest of the season.
"It seems to be our year for defensive back injuries," said Rush head coach Mike Hohensee. "DeJuan was playing very well for us, and we certainly will miss him on the field. By signing Ladd, we at least are able to bring in someone who is very familiar with our system and can help immediately."
Alfonzo, the team's second-leading tackler (41.5 tackles) and fourth-leading receiver (31 receptions), has been playing his best football of the season in recent weeks, recording 10.5 tackles, two interceptions, 12 receptions and four touchdowns in the past three games. In addition, Alfonzo was named both ADT Defensive Player of the Game and U.S. Army Ironman of the Game for his performance May 2 at Detroit.
Ladd, an original member of the Rush, played in Chicago for three seasons (2001-2003), catching 83 passes for 945 yards and 27 touchdowns. He also recorded 40 tackles and five interceptions in 32 games in a Rush uniform. After the 2003 season Ladd signed as a free agent with Dallas. He appeared in two games for the Desperados this season before being traded to Las Vegas March 23. With Las Vegas he played in five games before being released last week.
The Rush (9-4) can clinch its fourth-consecutive playoff berth this Sunday at 2 p.m. against the Dallas Desperados. Fans wishing to purchase individual game tickets to the Dallas game, or the team's final regular season home game on May 23, may order by calling Ticketmaster at (312) 559-1212, or by visiting the Ticketmaster Web site at www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets also may be purchased in person at any Ticketmaster outlet or the Allstate Arena box office.
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