Jackson signing gives Graziani, Soul a potent weapon

Soul wide receiver Chris Jackson yesterday was introduced amid a number of news cameras, a gaggle of VIP ticketholders and several baskets of crab fries. And, oh, yeah, a certain recognizable rock star.At the risk of being condescending, it was an impressive gathering for an Arena Football League free-agent signing.

“This is a bit surreal,” said Jackson, looking around the crowded back room of Chickie’s & Pete’s in South Philadelphia. “When I came into arena football [in 2000], this was not part of it. You went and you played. But having Jon Bon Jovi as part of the ownership, this comes with it.”

Full Story: Jackson signing gives Graziani, Soul a potent weapon  - [Philly.com]

Related: Soul hope reunion renews magic - [Philly.com]

Soul Sign Force’s Jackson

The Soul’s signing of free-agent wide receiver Chris Jackson is the Arena Football League equivalent of when the Eagles added Terrell Owens.Minus the sit-ups.

Jackson, 32, signed a 2-year deal with the Soul and immediately becomes the team’s top wide receiver. Last season with the Georgia Force, Jackson was second in the AFL in catches (145) and yards (1,915) and third in touchdown receptions (47).

Granted, the numbers are outrageous compared to traditional football, but his recognition as first-team all-league speaks for itself.

His deal with Philadelphia makes him one of the highest paid players at his position. Jackson will earn $125,000 in 2008. Only Chicago’s Damian Harrell ($140,000) and Arizona’s Siaha Burley ($130,000) will earn more next season.

“I’m happy, my family’s happy and now I just can’t wait to get started,” he said.

Full Story: Soul lands big-time receiver as Force’s Jackson signs 2-year deal - [Philly.com]

Chris Jackson Can Catch Elite Group

Georgia Force WR CHRIS JACKSON can move up in the AFL record books when the Force (9-1) travel to Los Angeles to take on Jackson’s former team, the Avengers (5-5), on Saturday, May 19, at 10:30 p.m. ET (Sports South - Live, FSN Prime Ticket - Live, SIRIUS Radio - Channel 123).

Georgia Force Receiver Chris Jackson Can Catch Elite Group Against Former Team On Saturday - [Our Sports Central]