Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Soul add beef from Dallas

PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Soul have signed a pair of offensive linemen, Zipp Duncan and Christian Johnson to the team’s 2012 roster.  Both players attended Kentucky and toiled for the Dallas Vigilantes last season.

Seven former members of the Vigilantes – including former head coach Clint Dolezel, who is the Soul’s assistant head coach and offensive coordinator -- have now signed with Philadelphia.

 “These are two very significant signings for us,” said Soul general manager Tom Goodhines.  “Zipp and Christian are important pieces as we build a solid offensive line to protect our quarterback.  Both guys bring winning attitudes that will be contagious for the entire team.”

Duncan is a former tight end converted into an offensive lineman.  During his four seasons at Kentucky (2005-08), he played in 38 career games while starting 26 consecutive games.  He was a First-Team All-State as a senior at Elizabethtown, KY high school, including being a three-year starter and receiving three consecutive selections on the All-District and All-Area teams.

 Johnson appeared in three games last season with Dallas.  During his time at Kentucky (2005-08), he appeared in 36 games while earning the starting nod 15 times.  His high-school career at West Potomac, Alexandria, VA included earning All-Metro honors for the District of Columbia Area, and a two-year All-District pick.

“Zipp and Christian are both big bodies that will keep our quarterbacks off the turf,” said Soul head coach Doug Plank.  “Their familiarity with and understanding of their blocking schemes in Clint’s offensive system will be a major plus for us.  Our coaches and front office continue to show we are ‘all in’ this season with the goal of winning the ArenaBowl.”

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