Rush signs former Bear QB Austin, former Irish WR Jenkins
October 18, 2005 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Chicago Rush News Release
The Rush announced today the signing of two rookies whose names should be very familiar to Chicago football fans - former Chicago Bear cornerback Reggie Austin and former Notre Dame wide receiver Omar Jenkins.
"Reggie and Omar are two very talented athletes who will come in and compete for jobs right away," said Rush head coach Mike Hohensee. "We saw Reggie in camp with the Vikings and we feel he can definitely strengthen our secondary.
"Omar is a big, strong receiver with good hands who adjusts well to the ball. He looked good when we worked him out and we're excited to see what he does when he gets to camp."
Austin (5-10, 180, Wake Forest) was a fourth-round draft pick of the Bears in April 2000. After spending the entire 2000 season on Injured Reserve, Austin broke into the lineup in 2001, playing in nine games and recording six special teams tackles. In 2002 he had played in all nine games and recorded 26 tackles and two interceptions before suffering a torn ACL in his right knee November 10 against the Patriots. He signed a two-year contract.
Jenkins (6-1, 210, Notre Dame) signed a three-year deal to join the Rush after an outstanding four-year career at Notre Dame (2000-2003). The team's second-leading receiver as a senior, Jenkins caught 36 passes for 344 yards and one touchdown. He finished his career ranked 18th on the school's all-time list with 1,088 career receiving yards.
The Rush roster now includes 29 players. Teams are allowed to bring 37 players to training camp in January, but must cut down to 24 by opening day.
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Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from October 18, 2005
- Gladiators sign former NFL defensive lineman Alonzo Spellman - Las Vegas Gladiators
- Rush signs former Bear QB Austin, former Irish WR Jenkins - Chicago Rush
- Storm Sign Free Agent WR/DB Bobby Sippio - Tampa Bay Storm
- ArenaBowl XX to be played in Las Vegas - AFL I
- Rampage ink two big Buckeyes - Grand Rapids Rampage
- Wranglers sign nine free agents - Austin Wranglers
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