Blaze Defensive Backs Sign NFL Contracts
Published on December 20, 2012 under Arena Football League (AFL)
Utah Blaze News Release
SALT LAKE CITY - The Utah Blaze announced today that two more players have signed contracts with NFL teams. DB Dion Turner has been signed to the practice squad of the Miami Dolphins, while DB Otis Merrill joined the practice squad of the Green Bay Packers. Turner and Merrill become the third and fourth members of the Blaze to land on an NFL roster this offseason, joining OL JerMarcus Hardrick (New Orleans Saints) and WR LaMark Brown (Minnesota Vikings).
"Moving players to the next level is part of what we do in this business," said Head Coach Ron James. "Dion and Otis are both very talented players deserving of this opportunity. We're extremely excited for them, and wish them the very best as they continue to pursue careers in the National Football League."
A local product from Southern Utah University, Turner (6-0, 200, Southern Utah) earned first-team All-Great West Conference accolades in each of his final two college seasons. As a senior, he totaled 69 tackles (48 solo) with four stops for losses, four pass breakups, and a 33-yard interception returned for a touchdown.
Turner signed with the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted free agent during 2012 training camp. He played in three preseason games, posting three solo tackles.
Merrill (5-11, 190, Illinois State) rejoins the Packers after participating in 2012 training camp with the team, along with Turner. He played in all four preseason games and delivered six tackles (five solo) while also handling kickoff return duties.
During his college career at Illinois State, Merrill played in 32 games for the Redbirds and registered 76 tackles (52 solo) with 1.5 stops for loss, seven pass breakups, one interception, one forced fumble and one quarterback hurry.
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