Gladiators' Marlion Jackson and Tupe Peko Sign with NFL
August 14, 2006 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Las Vegas Gladiators News Release
Las Vegas, NV, August 14, 2006 - Las Vegas Gladiators fullback/linebacker Marlion Jackson and offensive/defensive lineman Tupe Peko were placed on the Gladiators exempt list after agreeing to contracts with the Atlanta Falcons and Green Bay Packers respectively, it was announced today by Gladiators head coach Danton Barto.
Jackson (6'1" 255, Saginaw Valley State) was named 2nd Team All Arena following the 2006 AFL season. He was seventh in the AFL in rushing in 2006 despite playing in only 10 games. He averaged a league-leading 5.2 yards-per-rush, rushing for 140 yards on only 27 carries with four touchdowns. The versatile swing man also spent time at receiver, hauling in 15 receptions for 232 yards and four scores. His 15.5 yards-per-reception led the Gladiators. Jackson nearly gained a first-down every time he touched the ball, averaging 8.9 yards-per-offensive-touch. On defense, the third-year star recorded nine tackles, including ½-tackle for a loss, recovered one fumble and had one pass breakup.
Peko (6'4", 305, Michigan State) played in 11 games for Las Vegas in the 2006 season, missing fine games after signing with the Houston Texans. Playing mostly center and nose guard, Peko recorded four tackles, but was a mainstay on the Gladiators offensive line in protecting the Gladiators quarterback. Peko played five seasons in the NFL with the Indianapolis Colts from 2001-2005.
As a member of the Gladiators' Other League Exempt list, both Jackson and Peko's rights are retained by Las Vegas.
Gladiators' 2007 season seats are on sale now. Fans interested in purchasing Gladiators' season seats can do so by calling the Gladiators office at 702-731-4977.
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