Rush signs DS Jeroid Johnson
Published on October 26, 2004 under Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Chicago Rush News Release
The Chicago Rush announced today it has signed prized free agent defensive specialist Jeroid Johnson to a two-year contract, marking the second-consecutive year in which the Rush was able to sign its top free agent priority.
Last season the Rush opened the free agent signing period by inking quarterback Raymond Philyaw to a two-year deal.
"The entire coaching staff is excited about the acquisition of Jeroid," said Rush head coach Mike Hohensee. "We've been interested in him for a couple of years and we feel he was not only the top free agent DS available, but ranks as one of the top three or four safeties in Arena Football.
"Playing safety in the AFL is one of the most difficult things to do in football â indoor or outdoor â and now we have one of the best handling the duties in the middle for us."
Johnson (5-9, 185, Oklahoma State) joins the Rush after spending the bulk of his five-year career with the New Jersey/Las Vegas Gladiators. In his career, Johnson has played in 52 games, recording 220 tackles and 22 interceptions. He was the Gladiators' team MVP in 2003 when he recorded 56 tackles and set a team record with eight interceptions. In 2002 he set the Gladiators' franchise record for tackles with 83. Last season, injuries limited Johnson to just two games, in which he recorded 8.5 tackles and one interception.
"I can't wait to get to Chicago," said Johnson. "I really like the direction the organization is going, and the Rush coaching staff is unbelievable. They have put together a team built to win. Last year they were one play away from going to the ArenaBowl and I think that with my help we can take that next step and win it all."
The Rush kicks off its fifth anniversary season in January and 2005 season tickets, beginning at just $64, are currently on sale. To reserve your tickets, or for more information about 2005 Rush season tickets, fans can call the Rush at (877) Rush-Tix (787-4849) or visit the team's Web site, www.chicagorush.com.
Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from October 26, 2004
- L.A. Avengers sign defensive specialist Jermaine Smith - Los Angeles Avengers
- Rush signs DS Jeroid Johnson - Chicago Rush
- Rampage sign top offensive specialist in Arena Football - Chris Jackson - Grand Rapids Rampage
- Kats Sign Two af2 Standouts - Nashville Kats
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