Grand Rapids Rampage Adds Another Thunder Receiver
November 9, 2007 - arenafootball2 (af2)
Mahoning Valley Thunder News Release
BOARDMAN, Ohio - The Mahoning Valley Thunder is pleased to announce WR Chris Johnson has signed with the Grand Rapids Rampage of the Arena Football League. Johnson joins former Thunder teammates WR DeMarcus Mathes and OL Brandon "TEX" Eaton in Grand Rapids. Johnson becomes the third Thunder player to make the jump to the AFL for 2008.
Johnson (6-2, 192, Georgia Southern) appeared in six games (all starts) for the Thunder in 2007. In his third year of af2, Johnson finished the year with 50 receptions for 680 yards and 16 touchdown receptions. The Arena Football veteran re-wrote the Thunder history books on July 7 versus Albany, recording season-highs in receptions (16), yards (238) and touchdowns (seven) including the game-winning touchdown in overtime to seal the victory over the Conquest. Johnson became the first player in Thunder history to earn the Schutt Offensive Player of the Week honors after his performance versus Albany.
THUNDER HEAD COACH MIKE HOLD
"Chris Johnson deserves this shot with the Rampage. We were fortunate enough to have him in 2007 but he truly belongs in the AFL. His knowledge of the game and experience at that level will be noticed the first time he steps on the field."
MAHONING VALLEY THUNDER TEAM STATEMENT
"From a football standpoint, Chris was a huge addition to our team last season. That was made evident by his record-setting performance in the overtime win versus Albany. His seven touchdowns and 238 yards receiving in that game proved he is a terrific talent. We wish him all the best and look forward to watching him this season in Grand Rapids."
The Rampage named former Georgia Force offensive coordinator Steve Thonn (ton) head coach on August 1, 2007 after suffering a 4-12 season in 2007. Despite that, for the first time in team history, two players were named to the All-AFL Ironman Team. Offensive/defensive lineman Winfield Garnett (Harvey, Ill.) and wide receiver/linebacker Jerome Riley (Los Angeles, Calif.) each earned the honor for the first time in their careers.
The Mahoning Valley Thunder closed out the 2007 Inaugural Season with three-straight home victories. Be a part of all the action in 2008 as the Thunder embarks on their quest to claim the ArenaCup9 Championship. Season ticket prices are more affordable and on sale now. Call the Thunder Offices at 330.758.4af2 (4232).
arenafootball2 Stories from November 9, 2007
- Former Eagle Nikolao joins Shock; Three former Shock players sign with the AFL - Spokane Shock
- Burn sign QB, add Idaho State Bengal to roster - Boise Burn
- Coyotes' OL Dartangon Shack Signs with the New York Dragons - Central Valley Coyotes
- Coyotes Announce First Tryout for 2008 Team - Central Valley Coyotes
- Yard Dawgz Expand 2008 Roster and Send One to Arena Football League - Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz
- Ficklin Signs with Kansas City Brigade - Green Bay Blizzard
- Grand Rapids Rampage Adds Another Thunder Receiver - Mahoning Valley Thunder
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
