WR/DB Kevin Nickerson Selected to AFL All-Rookie Team
May 24, 2005 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Austin Wranglers News Release
Wranglers two-way Kevin Nickerson was the only rookie wide receiver/defensive back named to the 2005 AFL All-Rookie Team. Nickerson, who came to the AFL from the Canadian Football League, led the Wranglers in receiving yardage and scoring while contributing on special teams in his rookie campaign and steadily improved his defensive play throughout the year, making him a threat in all phases of the Arena Football game.
"Kevin had a fantastic rookie season," said Wranglers Head Coach Skip Foster. "He played consistently from Game One all the way through Week 16. We felt like he was difference maker, especially on offense, and made plays against some of the best defensive players in this League week in and week out."
Offensively, Nickerson accumulated 1,028 yards on 85 catches for a team-high 23 receiving touchdowns. Nickerson also scored a rushing touchdown and returned 12 kickoffs for 148 yards (12.3 yard average).
A newcomer to the cornerback position, Nickerson adjusted to the secondary quickly, posting the second-most tackles on the team with 39.5 total stops, 37 solo, three passes defensed, one interception and one forced fumble.
"Playing both ways, particularly defense, was the biggest challenge for me this season," said Nickerson. "I've been an offensive guy all my life. Arena Football is a fun game and I had a good group of guys around me which made it an easy transition. This game is more suited for guys of my stature and it suits me and the type of player I am. You have to be aggressive and a tough guy."
The AFL Rookie of the Year will be announced on Wednesday, June 1. The All-Arena First and Second teams will be announced on Wednesday, May 25. Following is the 2005 AFL All-Rookie team:
2005 ALL-ROOKIE TEAM
POSITION PLAYER, TEAM
Quarterback Clint Stoerner, Dallas
Fullback/Linebacker Dan Alexander, Nashville
Offensive/Defensive lineman Aaron McConnell, Nashville
Offensive/Defensive lineman Joe Minucci, Nashville
Offensive/Defensive lineman Michael Landry, New Orleans
Wide receiver/Linebacker Derek Lee, Georgia
Wide receiver/Defensive back Kevin Nickerson, Austin
Offensive specialist Troy Bergeron, Georgia
Defensive specialist Billy Parker, New York
Defensive specialist Alvin Porter, New Orleans
Kicker Peter Martinez, Grand Rapids
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Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from May 24, 2005
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