Post by David on Oct 7, 2016 14:47:47 GMT -8
DL Brett Bowers (image credit: Dan Byers Photography)
10.7.16-
As of October 3rd, the IFL's free agency period has officially opened for all 10 of its teams. The Spokane Empire wasted no time dipping its toe into the free agency pool, announcing the return of DL Brett Bowers and the signing of OL James Atoe.
As a rookie with the Empire in 2016, Bowers (6'3'', 265 lbs) was an important part of the team's 3rd overall ranked defense. In 12 games, Bowers recorded 30 total tackles, including a team leading 13.5 tackles for loss. He also recorded 5.5 sacks during the season, which was ranked second on the team behind DL Benjamin Perry (9.0 sacks).
Empire Head Coach Adam Shackleford praised Bowers' contribution in the team's press announcement, especially his contribution to Spokane's defensive line.
“He’s a very good pass rusher with the strength to protect against the run game. His high motor and work ethic make him a force to be reckoned with in this league," Shackleford said.
Bowers was originally signed by the Empire as a rookie free agent last year when the team was still under the Shock name. Prior to joining Spokane, he played college football at Mendocino Junior College in Ukiah, CA, earning All-Bay Valley Conference honors in 2012. In two years at Mendocino, he recorded 44 total tackles, 23 tackles for loss, 16.5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and a blocked kick.
In 2013, Bowers transferred to New Mexico for his final two collegiate seasons. He played in 23 games, recording 67 total tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss, 9 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles.
Empire Sign All-IFL Offensive Lineman
OL James Atoe (image credit: Dan Byers Photography)
Spokane made its first splash into the free agency pool on Wednesday with the signing of restricted free agent OL James Atoe.
Atoe (6'7'', 375 lbs) heads to Spokane after spending the 2016 season with the Colorado Crush. Last season as a rookie free agent, Atoe earned Second Team All-IFL honors and was one of three Crush players to be named All-IFL.
"James is a big, physical offensive lineman with great athleticism that is tough to find," Head Coach Adam Shackleford said in the team's press release. "His ability to both run block and pass protect earned him All-IFL honors last season. We felt like getting Atoe was an essential free agent pick up for us."
Atoe's no stranger to the state of Washington or the Northwest, having grown up in The Dalles, Oregon and playing his college football career at the University of Washington. He got his first taste of college football action as a sophomore, playing in every game (starting six) at right guard. In 2013, he played in 12 out of 13 games, including the Huskies' win in the Fight Hunger Bowl over BYU. In 2014, Atoe played in all 13 games for the Huskies, splitting time between right guard (9 starts) and right tackle (4 starts).
After graduating from UW, Atoe earned a rookie minicamp invite from the NFL's Seattle Seahawks in 2015. Shortly afterward, he went on to play for Team USA in the International Federation of American Football.
Atoe joins an experienced offensive line which includes First Team All-IFL OL Dave Lefotu and returning OL Kyle Fischer.
- DKH
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