Rattlers ink 2 more players for 2008
Published on December 21, 2007 under Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Arizona Rattlers News Release
PHOENIX - The playoff guaranteed Arizona Rattlers announced the signings of two more players for Head Coach Kevin Guy's 2008 campaign today, with NFL vets QB JEFF SMOKER (6-3, 223, Michigan State) and DB CHRIS MCKENZIE (5-10, 185, Arizona State) becoming the newest Rattlers.
Smoker was a sixth round pick of the St. Louis Rams in 2004, and spent that season on the Rams' active roster as the team's third quarterback. He joined the now-defunct Nashville Kats last season after a stint on the practice squad of the Philadelphia Eagles. Despite only starting 13 games, Smoker racked up 3,445 yard passing and 57 touchdowns while completing over 60% of his passes. Had a record-setting career at Michigan State, setting the school's all-time passing yardage record with 8,714 yards, and was the first Spartan quarterback to throw for over 3,000 yards in a single season.
"We want as much competition at every position as possible," said Guy.
"We feel that this will make us a better team in the long run."
McKenzie was considered one of the fastest players in the NCAA while at Arizona State after once being clocked running the 40 yard dash in 4.15 seconds. He started 20 games in his Sun Devil career after transferring from Glendale C.C., recording 81 tackles, 11 passes defensed and three interceptions. After playing in the All-American Classic All-Star game as a senior, he joined the Houston Texans in 2005, and recorded four tackles, two passes defensed and a sack in three games.
FB/LB Erik Arevalo and OL Brandon Phillips were placed on recallable waivers.
The 2008 Arizona Rattlers kickoff their 17th season in March, and have guaranteed their season ticket holders a trip to the playoffs. Season tickets, group tickets and premium single game tickets can be purchased by calling 602-379-2333.
Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from December 21, 2007
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