Kurt Rocco Set to Return; Henderson and Smith Also Reassigned
Published on October 19, 2012 under Arena Football League (AFL)
New Orleans VooDoo News Release
NEW ORLEANS (October 19, 2012) - The New Orleans VooDoo welcomes back quarterback Kurt Rocco and local players defensive lineman Robert Henderson and wide receiver Courtney Smith, announced the front office on Friday afternoon. All three players inked two-year deals to remain assigned with the VooDoo.
Rocco is the first quarterback to be reassigned during the exclusive period. Rocco had arguably the most prolific quarterbacking season in VooDoo history, setting new franchise single-season records in passing touchdowns (107), passing yards (5,317), and completions (391) in 2012. He finished the season ranked fourth among AFL passers in passing yards (295.5 yards/game) and total offense (298.6 yards/game).
Through two seasons in the AFL, Rocco has thrown for over 9,000 yards, 179 passing touchdowns and 20 rushing scores, and has been guided his teams to the postseason each season.
"Kurt had a great season last year and I know he believes in what we are trying to accomplish here," said VooDoo Head Coach Pat O'Hara. "I am happy to have him with us for two more seasons and I know he is happy to be back in New Orleans."
Henderson, a former fifth round NFL Draft selection of the New York Giants in 2006, played two games with the VooDoo in 2012. He suffered an injury against the Philadelphia Soul in Week 1, and did not suit up again until the first round playoff game against the Soul. The Ponchatoula native was the first player to re-up with the VooDoo during the exclusive period.
Smith found his way to the VooDoo mid-season in 2012, and the New Orleans native amassed 19 receptions for 206 yards and 4 touchdowns, while registering 4 carries for 10 yards and 2 scores in just seven games. Like Henderson, Smith spent time in the NFL, signing as an undrafted free agent with the New York Jets in 2011.
"Losing Henderson in the first game last season hurt us on the defensive line. I am excited to see him back with us. As a rookie and in playing in only two games, it was easy to see as coaches that he has the potential to be a very solid player in this league," said O'Hara about Henderson.
"Courtney has a tone of ability and is a mismatch on the field for defenses," added O'Hara about Smith. "He was a rookie last year and once he learned our game, he really showed his true ability. I am excited to have him back with us and to see him grow as player."
Arena Football League Stories from October 19, 2012
- Shock Assigned Erik Meyer - Spokane Shock
- Shock Assigned Chris Pino and Marc Schiechl - Spokane Shock
- Wide Receiver Fred Williams Back in San Jose - San Jose SaberCats
- Kurt Rocco Set to Return; Henderson and Smith Also Reassigned - New Orleans VooDoo
- Blaze Support YMCA through DishED Gala - Utah Blaze
- AFL, BSN to Run Exclusive League Combines - AFL
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