Steelhawks Sign League's Top Rusher and an NFL Kicker

The Lehigh Valley Steelhawks have signed the Professional Indoor Football League's leading rusher from last season. FB Mike Jones (6-foot-1, 250 pounds) is the latest player to sign a 2014 Steelhawks contract. He will look to be an integral cog in the offense. 

Another addition to the Steelhawks roster is that of K Michael Barnard (6-foot-2, 206 pounds), a kicker who spent time in various NFL camps.

Jones played for the Richmond Raiders last year but will be relocating farther north for this season. Jones was sidelined for much of last season with an injury, only getting to play in six games with the Raiders, but was still named Second Team All-PIFL Fullback. Playing in just half of the games, Jones led all players in several rushing statistics – Touchdowns (13), Yards/Game (41.5), and Yards/Carry (4.2). He also rushed for 249 yards (2nd overall).

Barnard, a New Jersey native, has previous indoor experience playing with the Reading Express for a brief time before being called into an NFL camp. But he has made a name for himself by spending time with both the Philadelphia Eagles and the Green Bay Packers. 

Coach Thompson has some great expectations for both players this season, “Last year we went through a number of players during the season at the FB position and signing an All-PIFL member in Mike Jones is extremely exciting for us. We’re hoping to have more consistency there this season at that position, and at 6’1, 255 lbs and in our offense, where we like to utilize the FB in the run and passing game, he will be another great weapon for us, that defenses will have to game plan to stop.  We can’t wait for February to get here to welcome Mike to the Lehigh Valley area.  In terms of Barnard, we are thrilled to land some stability at such an important position.  He clearly has an NFL leg, and will remain on all those teams radars throughout they year.  We fully expect to see some NFL scouts at our games, keeping an eye on Michael all year.”

The team is already beginning the recruiting process for the 2014 season. The first open tryout for the 2014 season will be Sunday, November 24 at Iron Lakes Sports Complex. 

Visit www.LVSteelhawks.com for the latest Steelhawks news.

Fans are reminded that 2014 season ticket deposits are being accepted now to reserve seats for the 2014 PIFL season by calling 610-282-3100.  Ticket packages start as low as $48.