Force Continue To Build Defense

November 18, 2010 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Georgia Force News Release


The Georgia Force of the Arena Football Leaguecontinue to build their defense and are pleased to announce their second group of signings -- which are headlined by two of the AFL's top rated linebackers Will Thompson and Rajohn Myles -- for the upcoming 2011 season.

An Athens resident and former player at the University of Georgia, Thompson was previously with the Force in 2008, the Las Vegas Gladiators in 2007 and was with the Milwaukee Iron last year. Prior to playing in the AFL, Thompson also spent time inthe NFL with the Atlanta Falcons and New York Jets.

"Will is a dynamic player that can do many things for us," Head Coach Dean Cokinos said. "He's not only a tremendous MAC linebacker, but he can also put his hand on the ground and rush the passer from the defensive end position. We are looking forward to the great leadership Will is going to provide this season."

The leadership that Thompson provides is an attribute that Cokinos covets and the rapport that he has with Myles -- a player that he coached while leading the Alabama Vipers to an Arena Cup Championship in '08 - will add strength to the Force defense this season.

At 6-1, 250, Myles, who attended the University of Alabama-Birmingham, spent the 2010 season with the Jacksonville Sharks. And in 2009, he was in camp with the Calgary Stampede of the Canadian Football League.

"I know what I am getting with Ray," Cokinos said. "He's a tough, hard nosed, physical player who will show up day in and day out. He brings a lot to the table. He's a smart, veteran player who understands what the offense is trying to do. He was a vital part of our championship team in `08."

Rounding out the signings at the linebacker position are rookie Jordan Stevens and veteran Eric Crosby.

Stevens (6-2, 251), who played collegiately at the University of Maine and recorded 58 tackles and 10 sacks for the Black Bears in '09, attended mini-camp with the Detroit Lions after being undrafted this past April.

Crosby (6-3, 210) attended Albany State University and has played the last three years under Cokinos. This past season with the Vipers, Crosby was one of the top LBs in the league. He recorded 94 tackles and six interceptions - one of which he returned for a touchdown. Just as Cokinos is familiar with Myles, he's also aware of Crosby's strengths and plans on utilizing them this season.

"Eric's energy, team first attitudeand physical style of play will bring a strong presence to our team," he said. "Simply put, he is a playmaker."

Don't be left feeling Black and Blue this spring, as the Force open the 2011 season at home against the Tulsa Talons on Sunday, March 13th at 4:05 pm. All home games will be played at the Gwinnett Center. Season ticket plans are now available, call the Force sales department at 770-609-1300or visit us online at www.georgiaforce.com for more information.



Arena Football League Stories from November 18, 2010


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