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SALT LAKE CITY - The Utah Blaze announce the signing of four players. The group of players includes: University of Utah alum, JESSE BOONE (6-5, 305, Utah) and former Brigham Young University defensive tackle, MANAIA BROWN (6-3, 302, BYU). Other players signed include: linebacker BRENDAN SCHAUB (6-4, 250, Colorado) and wide receiver EDWARD SIMMS (6-4, 230, William Penn). Terms of the contracts were not disclosed due to team policy.
"It is great for young players like Boone and Brown who both have local ties," said Blaze head coach and general manager DANNY WHITE. "All of these players have a lot of potential and we are thrilled to be able to add them to our roster."
BOONE: During his 2004 season at center, Boone played 775 plays with 49 knockdowns. Boone was named Second Team All-Conference, Academic All-MWC and also made the Athletics Academic Honor Roll.
In 2005, Boone started at center once again collecting 45 knockdowns in 913 plays. The former Ute was named First-Team All-MWC and was chosen as the teams Most Valuable Offensive Lineman.
BROWN: During Brown's 2004 season with BYU, he was credited with 26.0 tackles and 4.5 sacks. His season high five tackles came against top ranked USC. Brown also earned All-MWC Honorable Mention Honors.
During his 2005 senior season, the former Cougar totaled 31.0 tackles and 1.5 sacks. He was named Second-Team All-MWC and was the team defensive lineman of the year. Brown transferred to BYU from Nebraska in 2002.
SCHAUB: Schaub saw action in all 13 games during his senior season with CU. He played on special teams as well as offense. He ascended to second on the depth chart at full backer and had six special team points on the strength of three tackles, a knockdown block, a wedge break and a blocked punt.
SIMMS: During his 2004 senior season, the former Statesman totaled 17 receptions for 263 yards and four touchdowns. He averaged 15.5 yards per reception and 26.3 yards per game. Simms also returned 25 kicks for a total of 377 yards.
