Soul sign LB Bear

PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Soul have announces the assignment of linebacker, James “Dusty” Bear  for the 2012 season.

Bear, who was a Second Team All-Arena selection last season with Dallas, will be entering his third season in the Arena Football League.

“The Soul got stronger today,” said Soul head coach Doug Plank.  “We targeted Dusty because he is versatile and one of the top defensive players in the league.  He is a playmaker that has the ability to play many different positions.  We’re excited to have him on our team this season.”

Bear is coming off of his best season after playing for the Dallas Vigilantes in 2011 under current Soul assistant head coach/offensive coordinator, Clint Dolezel.  He played in 16 games, recording a total of 43.0 tackles for the season.  He ranked No. 3 in the league in sacks (11.0) and No. 4 in tackles for loss (12.0).  He even scored a touchdown and two safeties for a total of 10 points.

Prior to signing with Dallas, Bear played in three games with the Alabama Vipers in 2010.  During just three games he was able to record seven tackles, seven assists, 1.5 sacks and two receptions for 10 yards. He had begun the 2010 season with the Tampa Bay Storm.  In five games with Tampa Bay, he recorded eight tackles, four assists, one sack and five rushing yards.

In 2009, before joining the AFL, Bear played for an af2 team, the Florida Firecats.  Here he recorded 26.5 total tackles, four tackles for loss, and two sacks.

Bear played college football at Western Kentucky University (2004-07).  In 2007, his senior season, he recorded 37.0 total tackles, 4.5 sacks, and two interceptions for 38 yards.