NFL Veteran, ISU Alum Tyson Smith Signs with 'Stormers
Published on December 11, 2009 under Arena Football League (AFL)
Iowa Barnstormers News Release
DES MOINES - Iowa Barnstormers Head Coach and Director of Football Operations John Gregory today announced the team has reached agreement with LB/DL Tyson Smith, WR Phillip Brock and LB Derrick Byrd. This brings the total number of players currently under contract for Iowa to 29.
Tyson Smith is no stranger to Iowa football fans. The Des Moines native and 2002 Dowling Catholic grad joins the Barnstormers having spent the last three seasons with six different NFL organizations, most recently the Denver Broncos. Prior to starting his professional football career, Smith had a decorated four-year stint at Iowa State University, where the linebacker finished his career with 225 tackles and 12.5 sacks. Smith was the first player in Iowa State history to play in four bowl games.
Phillip Brock (6-0, 210) joins the Barnstormers as a free-agent. The Nicholls State graduate signed with the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League during 2009, but was released following training camp. He moved on to sign with the af2's Green Bay Blizzard where he appeared in four games. In 2008, Brock had an all-pro season with the af2's Peoria Pirates. He was second on the team with 233 yards rushing and set a franchise record with 112 receptions, 1,406 receiving yards and 26 touchdowns. He led the Pirates in scoring and all-purpose yards and was named team's Most Valuable Player. Brock was used primarily as a running back at Nicholls State, earning Southland Conference all-second team honors in 2003.
Derrick Byrd (6-1, 225) joins the Barnstormers following a fine career at Missouri State University. Byrd led the team with 87 tackles in 2005, while also compiling 4 pass break-ups, 2 fumble recoveries and a forced fumble. During his senior season in 2006, Byrd recorded 60 tackles. The 2010 season will be Byrd's first playing Arena Football.
The 2010 Arena Football One season is rapidly approaching. Expect more announcements from Coach Gregory and the Barnstormers in the coming days regarding player signings and the release of the 2010 schedule. 2010 Iowa Barnstormers season tickets remain on sale now for as low as $96.00 per seat! Call 515-633-2255 or visit www.theiowabarnstormers.com for more information.
Arena Football League Stories from December 11, 2009
- Vijil Returns To Spokane - Spokane Shock
- Shock Dance Team Finals Coming In January - Spokane Shock
- NFL Veteran, ISU Alum Tyson Smith Signs with 'Stormers - Iowa Barnstormers
- Dawgz Host Tryout - Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz
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.
