Blaze ink two former West Division rivals

Monday November 12, 2012

 Former Shock DB Ferguson, SaberCats OL Leatiota Added to Roster

SALT LAKE CITY – The Utah Blaze added a pair of former West Division foes to its roster in defensive back Josh Ferguson and offensive lineman Isaac Leatiota, the team announced today. Ferguson spent the past two seasons with the Spokane Shock, while Leatiota is coming off a rookie campaign with the San Jose SaberCats.

Leatiota (6-3, 315, San Jose State) spent much of his rookie campaign on injured reserve, but played in two games with one start at tight end for the SaberCats. He was a mainstay on the offensive line at San Jose State, where he started 42 games during his four-year collegiate career.

“Isaac is a valuable addition to our offensive line,” said Head Coach Ron James. “He has to ability to contribute at every position up front. His combination of size, strength and athletic ability will really pay dividends when it comes to protecting our quarterback.”

Ferguson (5-8, 180, UTEP) started 19 games over the past two seasons for the Shock, posting 104 tackles (89 solo) with two tackles for loss, two interceptions, 18 pass breakups and one fumble recovery. He entered the AFL with the Chicago Rush in 2010 and earned second-team All-Arena accolades after delivering nine interceptions during his rookie campaign.

During his college career at UTEP, Ferguson was a two-time All-Conference USA choice. He started 33 games after transferring from Chabot College in 2005 and registered 151 tackles (90 solo) with 1.5 sacks, five tackles for loss, 17 pass breakups, six interceptions, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.

“Josh brings a lot of experience to our secondary and has a knack for causing turnovers,” James stated. “He’s a proven player in this league and already has a strong rapport with Coach Keefe. I’m thrilled to add another veteran presence to our defense.”

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