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IFL Bay Area Panthers

Former Kennesaw State RB Darnell Holland Signed by Panthers

December 14, 2023 - Indoor Football League (IFL)
Bay Area Panthers News Release


The Panthers added a proven big play threat to the backfield with the signing of former Kennesaw State running back Darnell Holland.

"Darnell is an explosive, physical and violent runner that has the ability to take it to the house anywhere on the field," said Head Coach Rob Keefe.

A three-year starter for the Owls, Holland ran for 2,431 yards and 26 touchdowns and added 35 receptions for 606 yards and three scores in 49 games. In 2018, Holland was named to the AFCA -All America team after averaging a mind-blowing 12 yards per rush on the way to a second straight Big South Conference championship.

"I was very determined that year to not let anybody on my team or the opposing team stop me from being successful," said Holland. "I was able to trick my mind that it didn't matter if someone messed up an assignment or somebody missed a block. That was my mentality my senior year. That mindset and just being healthy, buying into the program and bringing people with me. It was a phenomenal experience."

Following his college career, Holland signed with the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent and became the second former KSU player to sign with an NFL team. The experience left an impression on what it takes to get to the league and stay there.

"It taught me that you can't rely on your talent. Talent will only get you so far," said Holland. "It's your work ethic along with how people see you. "Being good enough is not good enough. You have to show you're good enough. That's something I constantly think about and to this day work towards."

Keefe reached out to Holland before a stint in the USFL. In 2022, Holland played for the Philadelphia Stars and averaged 5.4 yards per carry in five games before suffering a hamstring injury in April. Keefe called again and this time Holland was ready for the opportunity.

"I look at the IFL as a challenge to constantly stay on the field," said Holland. "I want to be in the best condition to only be off the field for defense. I want to play on the return teams and exert all my energy for the team and hopefully feel rewarded with the things that come along with me putting my body on the line for my team."

The spirit of sacrifice came from Holland's parents who gave up individual pursuits to take care of him and his sister. The trait is a part of Holland's DNA--has 3-year-old daughter Brinnleigh with his longtime girlfriend.

"I want my daughter to look at my life as an example," said Holland. "I want her to see no matter what God throws at you, what obstacles are in place, you can accomplish anything you put your mind to and take care of your responsibilities. She's watching everything I do and I hope when she gets older she realizes that I've done all those things and took care of her on the top of my priority list."

As he gets his body right for training camp, Holland serves as a substitute teacher for special education and extreme autism. The rewarding job provides a career option once his football career is over.

"It's been a wonderful experience. I really do feel valued and appreciated here," said Holland.

The backup plan is just that for now. Holland is focused on putting in the work to give himself the best chance to make his mark in the IFL.

"I'm always in the gym and take pride in being one of the strongest guys on the team regardless of position. I take great pride in being available on my time and open for any opportunity. Because of that, I've always accepted my role and maximize it with every opportunity I receive."



Indoor Football League Stories from December 14, 2023


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