Rush resigns Hammel, adds af2 Lineman of the year Smith
Published on October 24, 2005 under Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Chicago Rush News Release
October 24, 2005 - The Chicago Rush re-signed quarterback Todd Hammel to a one-year contract and signed rookie lineman Khreem Smith, the 2005 af2 Lineman of the Year, to a two-year deal, the team announced today.
"Having Todd back gives us a nice veteran presence to help complement our young guys," said Rush head coach Mike Hohensee. "He played well for us last year, and is a great influence in the locker room.
"Smith was the most dominant lineman in af2 last year and every AFL team was interested in him. We are excited to have him in Chicago and think he will have an immediate impact on our defensive line."
Hammel (6-2, 225, Stephen F. Austin), who is entering his 15th season in the AFL, played in six games for the Rush last season, including two starts, completing 55 of 76 passes for 754 yards and 15 touchdowns. He enters the 2006 season ranked among the AFL's all-time leaders in pass attempts (4th), pass completions (6th), passing yards (5th), touchdown passes (5th) and rushing touchdowns (6th).
Smith (6-4, 270, Oklahoma State) comes to Chicago after spending the 2005 season with the af2's Memphis Xplorers, where he was named af2 Lineman of the Year. Smith led the league with 17 sacks, 11.5 tackles for loss, and six forced fumbles, helping the Xplorers to a 16-3 record and the ArenaCup title. He also added 28 tackles, three fumbles recovered, three passes broken up, two blocked kicks and a safety.
In addition, the Rush announced that it has released three players - WR/DB Chris Day, defensive specialist Jeroid Johnson and lineman Johnathan Taylor.
The Rush roster now includes 32 players. Teams are allowed to bring 37 players to training camp in January, but must cut down to 24 by opening day.
Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from October 24, 2005
- Rattlers Sign Veteran Offensive Specialist - Arizona Rattlers
- Avenger Double Days - Los Angeles Avengers
- Rampage land All-Arena lineman Tim Martin - Grand Rapids Rampage
- Rush resigns Hammel, adds af2 Lineman of the year Smith - Chicago Rush
- Austin Wranglers sign Robinson, Dreisbach - Austin Wranglers
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