Storm Bulks Up Offensive Line

Thursday July 11, 2013

 Tampa Bay acquires offensive linemen Bruce McCaleb and Maurice Robinson

TAMPA BAY – The Tampa Bay Storm has acquired offensive linemen Bruce McCaleb and Maurice Robinson, announced vice president of football operations Jeff Gooch. The team has also placed offensive lineman Jeff Tow-Arnett and quarterback Adrian McPherson on injured reserve.

“The offensive line was an area of concern for us and we needed to improve this aspect of our game,” said Gooch. “Bruce and Maurice bring size and strength to our line and will help us protect our quarterback.”

McCaleb (6-foot-2, 300 lbs., Delta State) began his Arena Football League career in 2011 with the Milwaukee Mustangs. He also played for the Georgia Force during the 2012 season, hauling in a reception for four yards. McCaleb spent time with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League and with various other indoor football leagues.

He started his collegiate career at the University of Memphis and would later transfer to Delta State (MS). McCaleb would go on to help lead the team to a number one ranking in both total offense and rushing offense in the Gulf South Conference during the 2007 season.

Robinson (6-foot-3, 370 lbs., Prairie View A&M) started on the offensive line for the Panthers. He anchored a line that allowed only 12 sacks during the 2007 season, helping him earn Second Team All-Southwestern Athletic Conference Honors.

Tow-Arnett (6-foot-2, 295 lbs., Minnesota) started in five games for the Storm. He rushed nine times for 18 yards. He saw time at fullback and center.

McPherson (6-foot-3, 225 lbs., Florida State) started in 13 games for the Storm this season. Prior to going down with an injury, McPherson completed 238-of-385 pass attempts for 3,151 yards, 59 touchdowns, and five interceptions. McPherson also set franchise records for most rushing yards in a single-season (415) and most rushing touchdowns in a single-season (31). His 31 touchdowns on the ground set a league single-season record for most rushing touchdowns by a quarterback.

The Storm also acquired wide receiver Justin Hilton (6-foot-3, 200 lbs., Indiana St.), and reassigned fullback Nick Torresso (6-foot-2, 310 lbs., Bowling Green).

The Five-Time World Champion Tampa Bay Storm was awarded the 2012 AFL Support Staff of the Year. Single game tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com, by calling 800.745.3000 or by visiting the McDonald’s® Ticket Office at the Tampa Bay Times Forum. Season tickets can be purchased by visiting TampaBayStorm.com or by calling 813.301.6600. Additionally fans and sponsors can follow the Storm on Facebook (Tampa Bay Storm) or Twitter (@tampabaystorm) for up to date news and exclusive content.