Blaze Return Franchise Record Holders Rayford, Phillips
Published on November 9, 2012 under Arena Football League (AFL)
Utah Blaze News Release
SALT LAKE CITY - The Utah Blaze announced today that the franchise has reached two-year agreements with defensive end Caesar Rayford and defensive back Al Phillips. Phillips is the team's all-time leading tackler, while Rayford holds the franchise record for sacks.
"Caesar is the longest-tenured member of our team and has been a staple in this franchise, both on the field and in the community," said Head Coach Ron James. "Al is one of our most consistent defensive backs. He's a smart player that brings that lunch pail mentality to practice every day. We're very excited to get both of these back on board for the next two seasons."
Rayford (6-7, 275, Washington) has played in a franchise record of 49 straight games and is the most productive pass rusher in team history. During his three-year tenure with Utah, he has accumulated a Blaze record of 22.5 sacks. A starter in all 20 games, Rayford delivered 22 tackles (18 solo) in 2012, including 7.5 sacks. He added four quarterback hurries, three pass breakups, one forced fumble and one blocked kick.
Rayford's most productive season came in 2011, when he earned first-team All-Arena accolades after delivering 31 tackles (18 solo) with 10 sacks and 12 tackles for loss. He tied for second in AFL single-season history with five blocked kicks and added seven pass breakups, four fumble recoveries and three forced fumbles.
"It feels good to be back with the Blaze," said Rayford. "We have a great coaching staff, a great group of players and a great fan base. Utah is the place I call home. Now it's time to start working towards bringing an ArenaBowl Championship to Salt Lake City."
Phillips (5-11, 190, Wagner) is already Utah's all-time leading tackler after posting 151.5 stops (124 solo) during his first two seasons with the Blaze. He started 15 games for the Blaze in 2012 and finished with 60 tackles (48 solo), including one assisted tackle for loss. Phillips also registered two interceptions and nine pass breakups.
In 2011, Phillips set a single-season franchise record with 91.5 tackles (76 solo), including one tackle for loss. He also led the team with 18 pass breakups and four interceptions while forcing two fumbles and recovering three others.
"It's a great feeling to be back with such a great organization," Phillips said. "The decision was really a no-brainer. I'm glad to be back with the Blaze, and I'm ready to win a championship."
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