Post by David on May 11, 2017 14:47:26 GMT -8
Empire LB Nick Haag is getting another shot at the NFL. (image credit: Anna Mills / MyFox28.com)
5.11.17 -
SPOKANE, WA - Empire LB Nick Haag is getting another chance to play in the NFL.
In Thursday's edition of The Spokesman-Review, Jim Meehan reported that Haag has signed a deal with the NFL's New York Giants to attend the team's 2017 rookie minicamp. Haag reportedly was set to sign the dotted line today and partake in the Giants' three-day camp. In addition to Haag and veteran OL Michael Brewster, will evaluate the Giants' draft class, undrafted rookie free agents and tryout players.
Haag confirmed the signing on Twitter yesterday.
“I’m truly blessed,” said Haag to The Spokesman-Review. “When something like this happens, you remember all those who doubted you and said you couldn’t do it."
It's been a long time coming for the 6'3'', 240 lb linebacker from Assumption (MA) College. Initially undrafted in the 2013 NFL Draft, Haag began his professional football career with the IFL's Cedar Rapids Titans in 2014. He remained with the Titans in 2015 before signing with the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent. He only lasted through the preseason before he was released.
Eventually, Haag would end up signing with the Spokane Empire for the team's inaugural 2016 Season in the IFL. He made an instant impact with the Empire, ranking second on the team (and 7th overall in the IFL) with 89.5 total tackles (78 solo), 13 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks, 2 forced fumbles and 1 fumble recovery in 15 games. His efforts earned him Second Team All-IFL honors as the Empire won its first Intense Conference Championship and first United Bowl appearance.
This season, Haag was a key component to an Empire defense that has given up 40.4 points per game, ranked 4th best in the IFL. In 10 games, he tallied 53 total tackles, 4.0 sacks, 6 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery and 2 pass breakups.
With the Empire facing the Arizona Rattlers this weekend, LB Andrew Jackson will likely take over in Haag's absence. Jackson, a former LB with the Indianapolis Colts, has tallied 65 total tackles, 4 sacks, 9.5 tackles for loss, 4 pass breakups, and a fumble recovery.
Haag becomes the latest member of the 2017 Spokane Empire to sign a contract with outdoor football teams. DB Adrian James and K Craig Peterson are both headed to the CFL as members of the BC Lions and Hamilton Tiger-Cats, respectively.
- DKH
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