Antonio Narcisse Returns to Blaze
Published on February 23, 2012 under Arena Football League (AFL)
Utah Blaze News Release
SALT LAKE CITY - The Utah Blaze have been assigned standout offensive center Antonio Narcisse (6-2, 315, Portland State), announced President & Head Coach Ron James. Narcisse started seven games for the Blaze last season after the team acquired him in a midseason trade with the Spokane Shock.
"Antonio is one of the best centers in the Arena Football League," said James. "He's a key element to our offensive success and we're excited to have him back in a Blaze uniform. I can't say enough good things about Antonio. He constantly brings a professional attitude and works hard to continue improving on a daily basis. He really sets the tone for our group."
On May 29th, 2011, Utah sent OL Raymond McNeil and QB Erik Meyer to the Spokane Shock in a trade for Narcisse and DL Khreem Smith. Narcisse started the final seven games of the 2011 season for the Blaze, but was placed on injured reserve after suffering a torn labrum in his shoulder.
In his short time with the team, Narcisse proved himself a dominant performer, as Utah did not allow a single sack in three of the seven games in which he played. His assignment solidifies the offensive front while bringing veteran leadership to a unit largely composed of young players. It also maintains important continuity between quarterback Tommy Grady and his center.
"The center position is so important to the passing game and I think we have one of the best in Narcisse," said Grady. "It was crucial for us to re-sign him and I'm excited to have him back. It's great to have a veteran in the middle of the offensive line to help out the young guys around him."
"It feels good to be back with the team," said Narcisse. "I can't wait to get on the field and get started. I plan on doing whatever it takes to win a ring."
Narcisse originally entered the Arena Football League in 2007, playing in 13 games for the New Orleans VooDoo. He started four games for the Cleveland Gladiators the following season and won an ArenaBowl Championship as a member of the Spokane Shock in 2010.
A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, Narcisse began his collegiate career at College of San Mateo before transferring to Portland State in 2003. He earned All-Big Sky Conference accolades during his final two seasons with the Vikings. As a senior in 2005, Narcisse anchored an offensive line that allowed a league-low 10 sacks and produced the conference's top rushing attack.
Arena Football League Stories from February 23, 2012
- Raymond Assigned to Utah for 2012 - Utah Blaze
- Shock Continue to Shuffle Training Camp Roster - Spokane Shock
- Antonio Narcisse Returns to Blaze - Utah Blaze
- Sharks Training Camp Report #1 - Jacksonville Sharks
- Mustangs Announce 2012 Season Ticket Holder Appreciation Party - Milwaukee Mustangs
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