Blaze Re-Sign Second-Team All-Arena Defensive End
February 6, 2012 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Utah Blaze News Release
SALT LAKE CITY - After spending nearly all of the offseason on injured reserve, Michael Lewis (6-2, 250, Adrian) has finally returned to the Utah Blaze. The team announced today that the Second-Team All-Arena defensive end has officially been re-signed, giving the defense yet another skilled pass rusher.
Lewis returns to the Blaze after shattering Utah's single-season record for sacks, as his 10.5 sacks in 2011 more than doubled the previous team-high of 5.0 by Dwayne Missouri (2008) and Caesar Rayford (2010). He also tied Barry Wagner (2000) and Damen Wheeler (2006) for second in AFL single-season history with seven forced fumbles, falling just one shy of the record set by Gabe Nyenhuis (2010).
"We are excited to have Mike Lewis back with the Blaze for the 2012 season," said President & Head Coach Ron James. "He was extremely productive for us last season and a leader for our football team. Mike helps set the tone for our defense and we are looking for another stellar season from him this year."
Lewis played in just 16 games for the Blaze last season before a torn labrum in his shoulder landed him on injured reserve. Still, he finished with 34.5 tackles, including 11.5 stops for losses totaling 55 yards, and added four pass breakups, three fumble recoveries and one quarterback hurry.
"After missing out on the playoffs last season, I feel we have some unfinished business," said Lewis. "I'm looking forward to doing my part to push the Utah Blaze to the next level in 2012. We have great ownership, coaches and fans. It's exciting to be back!"
Prior to joining the Blaze, Lewis played for the Iowa Barnstormers during his rookie AFL season in 2010 and delivered 12.5 tackles, 2.5 sacks and one forced fumble in seven games. He spent his first two professional campaigns in the af2, recording nine sacks for the Albany Conquest in 2008 and seven sacks for the Peoria Pirates in 2009.
During a four-year career at Adrian College (MI), Lewis set all-time school records for sacks (40.5), tackles for loss (60.5) and fumble recoveries (7). He earned MIAA Defensive MVP honors and first-team All-American accolades in his senior season after collecting 43 tackles, eight sacks, and an astounding 24 tackles for loss.
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