Keenan Mace Inks New Deal with Blaze
November 21, 2012 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Utah Blaze News Release
SALT LAKE CITY - Nose guard Keenan Mace will return to the Utah Blaze after agreeing to terms on a new contact, the franchise announced today. Mace anchored the interior of the Blaze defensive line as a rookie in 2012.
"Keenan is one of the few pass rushers in this League that possesses not only the power to push the pocket, but also the speed necessary to sack the quarterback and make plays behind the line of scrimmage," said Head Coach Ron James. "We are looking forward to seeing how his game progresses in his second season of Arena Football. It is great to have number 57 back in a Blaze uniform for the 2013 campaign."
Mace (6-3, 305, Lindenwood) proved to be a difference maker up front for Utah as a rookie in 2012. Despite missing seven games, the massive nose guard delivered seven sacks and nine tackles for loss while starting 11 regular season contests. In total, Mace posted 18.5 tackles (15 solo) with one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.
"I'm glad to be back with this great organization, and the fans played a huge part in my return," Mace said. "I love playing for this city and I felt the Blaze were head and shoulders above the rest. When factoring in our coaching staff, the fan base and the way we are treated, my decision was very easy. I have no doubt that this group can bring Salt Lake City its first ArenaBowl championship."
A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Mace played collegiately at Lindenwood University. Prior to arriving in Utah, he attended training camp with the Dallas Cowboys of the National Football League.
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Arena Football League Stories from November 21, 2012
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- Keenan Mace Inks New Deal with Blaze - Utah Blaze
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