Edge Maintain Local Roots with Latest Signings
Published on January 30, 2014 under Champions Professional Indoor Football League (CPIFL)
Bloomington Edge News Release
The Bloomington Edge have stayed in the tradition-rich local football talent pool by signing four players who have chosen to continue their careers in the area.
Defensive lineman Ryan Jenkins and offensive lineman Ray Krishock were standouts at Illinois Wesleyan University and return to the Edge, while Brandon Newbern and De'Andre Eagle return to Bloomington-Normal after being part of the wide receiver corps at Illinois State University.
"There is a lot of talent in this area," said first-year Edge head coach John Johnson. "It is great to have guys who have played college ball locally now coming to play for us."
Jenkins returns for his third season with the Edge after recording 37 tackles in 2013, including 6.5 for loss, and one interception. The 6-2, 240-pounder was a Division III All-American and a two-time selection to the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin First Team.
Ryan Jenkins has been a very good player for us he is a hard worker that always plays with 100% effort" Ryan has played very well for us on defense & is a ball hawk, & disrupter in rushing the passer and causing turnovers," said Edge head coach John Johnson. "He is a great teammate and a great help on special teams as well."
Krishock begins his fourth season with the Edge after recording the most starts in Illinois Wesleyan history, during which he also recorded two All-CCIW selections as well as an appearance in the 2010 Aztec Bowl all-star game. The 6-6, 312-pound Krishock played in all 10 Edge games last season.
"You can always depend on Ray," said Johnson of Krishock. "He has really developed into an excellent OL for us. He has a tremendous work ethic and is a great team guy, plus he is very dependable and is becoming a great seasoned veteran and team leader for us."
Newbern is a 6-4, 205-pound Indianapolis native where he excelled at Ben Davis High School on the gridiron as well as with a state championship track and field squad. He registered 498 yards in receptions in two seasons at Grand Rapids Community College before transferring to Illinois State, where knee injuries hampered his playing time during the last two seasons. Eagle stands 6-1 and weighs 185 pounds and played at Chabot Junior College in Hayward, California before transferring in 2011 to Illinois State.
"Brandon Newbern and De'Andre Eagle really shined at our tryout and we cannot wait to have these two, talented, exceptional athletes help lead us to what we hope will be a great season," said Johnson. "They are great young men and excellent playmakers and receivers. Both are great assets to our ball club and we can't wait to see them perform on the field."
The Edge open Champions Professional Indoor Football League play in Kansas on March 7 against the Salina Bombers, with the home opener scheduled for Saturday, March 29 at 7:05 p.m. against the Omaha Beef at U.S. Cellular Coliseum. Season tickets and group discounts are available by calling 309-434-2980. More information on the Edge is on Facebook, Twitter and www.bloomingtonedge.com.
Champions Professional Indoor Football League Stories from January 30, 2014
- Edge Maintain Local Roots with Latest Signings - Bloomington Edge
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