Former Twisters Players Sign with AFL
January 4, 2007 - arenafootball2 (af2)
Arkansas Diamonds News Release
(North Little Rock, AR) - Two former Arkansas Twisters players have signed deals with different teams to play in the Arena Football League next season.
FB/LB Steve Watson and OL/DL Kimani Jones have signed to play with San Jose and New York respectively as released by the AFL office.
Watson was selected first team All-af2 by league coaches this past season which saw the former Southwest Missouri State player break the Twisters franchise record for sacks in a season with 16.0. He led the league in sacks, and along with C. J. McLain, formed the most feared sack attack duo in the af2.
"I just wanted to say to the coaching staff, administration, and most importantly the fans, that is was an absolute pleasure being a part of the Twister family," Watson said in a statement on www.arkansastwisters.com message board. "I don't think I have ever been welcomed and treated so well by any type of organization. I only wish that we could have brought you all the championship you deserve. I thank you all for giving me this opportunity."
Jones was a staple on the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. Coach John Gregory said at the beginning of the 2006 season that Jones was so good, he labeled Jones a "can't miss prospect". Ironically, Jones is signing with a team that both Gregory and teammate Walter Church both coached and played for.
Both Watson and Jones were instrumental in leading the Twisters to its best season in franchise history. The Twisters finished the '06 season with a franchise record 12 wins, a season sweep of rival Tulsa, and the second trip to the conference finals in last four years. Arkansas' defense was ranked in the top three in the af2 in every major defensive category.
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