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Former Heisman Runner-Up Michael Bishop Returns to Rampage

March 13, 2007 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Grand Rapids Rampage News Release


GRAND RAPIDS - The Grand Rapids Rampage today added one of the Arena Football League's most exciting players to their roster, acquiring quarterback Michael Bishop (Willis, Texas) in a trade with the Kansas City Brigade. The former Rampage signal caller was obtained in exchange for fullback/linebacker Jerry Turner.

Bishop proved to be one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in Rampage history during his two years (2004-05) in West Michigan. He ranks third in the team's history with 3,780 passing yards and 68 passing touchdowns while compiling a 101.02 passer rating with Grand Rapids.

Bishop will most be remembered for his speed and agility on the run, however. He ranks third in the team's history with 510 rushing yards in just 20 games with the Rampage. In 2005, Bishop set the AFL's single-season record with 459 rushing yards, including a record-setting 100-yard effort against the Colorado Crush on February 5, 2005.

"Having a quarterback with Michael's talents is a huge bonus for us, especially given our difficult situation at that position," said Sparky McEwen, Rampage head coach and director of football operations. Grand Rapids' original starting quarterback Chad Salisbury (Perryopolis, Pa.) suffered a concussion in Week 1 and will be out for at least three more weeks. "We expect to see Michael pick up right where he left off here two years ago, and look forward to using his incredible talents."

The 6-1, 215-pound Kansas State University product was a Heisman Trophy runner-up and winner of the Davey O'Brien Award as college's best quarterback in 1998 with the Wildcats. He was selected in the seventh round of the 1999 NFL entry draft by New England, and went on to play eight games with the Patriots in 2000. His additional professional experience includes time spent in NFL Europa, the Canadian Football League, and with the AFL's Chicago Rush and Kansas City Brigade.

Also joining the Rampage will be veteran free agent Kevin Gaines (Euclid, Ohio). Gaines has been one of the AFL's most respected and accomplished defensive backs over his nine years (1998-2006) in the league. The 6-1, 205-pound University of Louisville product ranks ninth all-time in AFL history with 499 tackles and sixth all-time with 40 interceptions. Last season, he finished second on the Philadelphia Soul with 70 tackles, 11 pass breakups, and five interceptions.

The Rampage will take on Gaines' former team, the Philadelphia Soul, Thursday night (March 15) at 7:00 p.m. EDT at Centennial Wireless Field in Van Andel Arena.



Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from March 13, 2007


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