PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Soul announced that fullback Derrick Ross has agreed to return to the team with a three-year deal starting with the 2013 season.
The two-time All-Arena fullback joins quarterback Dan Raudabaugh as the first two players to return to the Soul from last year’s American Conference Championship team.
“We have retained the best fullback in the Arena Football League,” said Soul co-majority owner Ron Jaworski. “Tom (Goodhines) and Clint (Dolezel) have been doing an excellent job of focusing on solidifying the foundation and adding parts that will help us achieve our goal of an ArenaBowl championship. Derrick was a big part of our success and we look forward to him being a part of this team for the next three years.”
A 2011 and 2012 First Team All-Arena selection, Ross is coming off of a League and franchise record-setting season. Ross led the AFL in rushing attempts (146), while setting a League record in rushing yards (645) and set a single-season franchise mark in rushing touchdowns (32). Ross’ best game from this past season came on June 2 versus the Orlando Predators, when he rushed nine times for 84 yards and five touchdowns.
“There is no other player in the League like Derrick,” said Soul head coach Clint Dolezel. “He is a talented weapon on offense that changes the game and creates more opportunities to open things up whenever he’s on the field. He’s a physical runner and a solid blocker. Having him back in our offensive system is something we are very excited about.”
Previous to his time with the Soul, Ross played for the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs (2006), the NFL Europe’s Cologne Centurions (2007) where he received Co-Offensive MVP honors; Montreal Alouettes (2008), Winnipeg Blue Bombers (2009), the IFL’s San Angelo Stampede (2010) and the AFL’s Dallas Vigilantes (2011).
Ross played his collegiate football at Tarleton State University (2004-05) where he played 18 games and holds several rushing records at the school. He was voted an All-American in both seasons he played there. Ross transferred from Blinn College, leaving the school holding rushing records and was voted an All-American.
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