SALT LAKE CITY – Former Eastern Illinois corner back Terrance Sanders was one of a handful of players signed this past week by the Utah Blaze of the Arena Football League. The Blaze finished with an 8-8 record last season and will open the 2008 season on March 1 against the Arizona Rattlers.
Sanders was a four-year member of the Panthers secondary helping EIU win back-to-back Ohio Valley Conference championships in 2005 & 2006. During those two seasons he made 47.5 tackles with 16 pass break-ups, three forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and three interceptions. His final EIU interception came in the 2006 playoff game against Illinois State which returned 87 yards for a touchdown.
The Blaze also signed former Arizona Cardinal and Dallas Cowboy fullback Troy Hambrick (6-1, 245, Savannah State). Other players signed this week include: fullback/linebacker Rodney Filer (6-3, 260, Iowa), offensive lineman Tupe Peko (6-4, 310, Michigan State), wide receiver Anthony Brown (6-6, 230, Arkansas), defensive lineman Maurice Fountain (6-4, 270, Clemson), linebacker Kelvin Morris (6-4, 245, Clemson), wide receiver David Sutton (6-6, 225, UTEP), and defensive back Melvin Matlock (5-11, 195, Minnesota State). Terms of the contracts were not disclosed due to team policy.
“These signings help add depth to key areas for us,” said Blaze head coach and general manager Danny White. “From Hambrick and Filer to guys a few years out of college, it's a good balance of veterans and young talent. We are excited to bring in players that we feel will help us make a run at the championship in 2008.”
