It has been a big year for Colorado Crush offensive specialist Damian Harrell.
Harrell’s career year was capped Thursday when he signed a new contract with the Crush that, according to agent Paul Sheehy of Littleton, puts his client among the top three highest-paid players in the Arena Football League.
“He hit the trifecta,” Sheehy said. “He was offensive player of the year, his team won the championship, and now he has a new contract that pays well into six figures.”
After the Crush beat the Georgia Force 51-48 at Las Vegas in Arena- Bowl XIX on June 12, Harrell said he wanted to stay with the team instead of venturing elsewhere as a free agent. Harrell’s new deal runs through the 2007 season.
“He was in a unique position with what had been accomplished, and we were prepared to test the market,” Sheehy said. “But when the Crush came in with something competitive, it was a done deal.”
Harrell was one of seven free agents on the Crush roster who faced Thursday’s signing deadline. Free agents not signed by that deadline remain in limbo until mid-September, when contract discussions can resume.
Mike Maciszewski, Crush director of football operations, announced defensive specialist Delvin Hughley and linemen Hugh Hunter and Maurice Anderson also signed before the deadline.
Fullback/linebacker Chad Dukes, lineman Bryant Shaw and quarterback Jose Davis weren’t signed. Davis said after the ArenaBowl that he would test the market in search of a starting job.
“All of the players we signed were major contributors to our season,” Maciszewski said. “Coach Mike Dailey and I are thrilled to have each of them back.”
Maciszewski said it is possible the Crush could sign Dukes and Shaw when discussions resume in September.
Sheehy said the expansion draft could have a big impact on rosters and that he expects three new teams to be added to the league. The AFL has awarded a franchise to Salt Lake City starting in 2006.
Irv Moss can be reached at 303-820-1296 or imoss@denverpost.com.
