Baltimore Mariners Ink Illinois Linebacker Pittman

Published on November 19, 2009 under American Indoor Football Association (AIFA)
Baltimore Mariners News Release


BALTIMORE, MD (November 19, 2009) - Former Maryland prep and Illinois University star Rodney Pittman, who also participated in the Washington Redskins 2009 Mini Camp, has signed a contract for the 2010 season with the Baltimore Mariners and hopes to start his professional career with the American Indoor Football Association (AIFA) club.

"Rodney is a tremendous local talent who has played in some big time college games while at Illinois. Rodney is a very intelligent and physical player. I am looking forward to seeing him compete in training camp," said Mariners Head Coach Chris Simpson.

A standout at Fort Washington, Maryland's Friendly High School, Pittman racked up impressive numbers as a senior in an award filled season. As a fierce linebacker and defensive lineman he totaled 132 tackles, eight sacks, and two interceptions in the Patriots 2004 season. He also saw time at tight end. For his defensive efforts he earned All-County honors and was named to The Washington Post All-Metro squad, earning honorable mention recognition. For his career he totaled 270 tackles, 22 sacks, and 36 quarterback hurries. Heavily recruited he chose Illinois over Boston College, Marshall and Syracuse.

For the Fighting Illini he made an immediate impact. As a freshman in 2005 he saw action in all 11 games, primarily on special teams, but also saw time at linebacker. He continued to see action in his sophomore year playing in ten games. In 2007 he earned his first start and played in all 13 games, including Illinois' 49-17 loss to USC in the 2008 Rose Bowl. In 2008 Pittman really took off as a tackler, finishing fourth on the team with 53 tackles, while seeing action in 12 games and starting eight. In his four seasons with the Big Ten team he totaled 46 games played, 68 tackles, 5.5 tackles for a loss, two sacks, and one forced fumble.

Following his collegiate career the 6'2", 245 pound linebacker attended mini camp with the Washington Redskins.

Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



American Indoor Football Association Stories from November 19, 2009


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central