The Rome Red Cats are officially putting the pieces together.
As the new professional football franchise begins building its roster, the Red Cats have announced their first three player signings, giving fans their first look at the type of talent the organization hopes will define the team.
Leading the way is a big man in the middle of the defense.
The first player to put pen to paper with the Red Cats was defensive lineman Quay Wiggles, a 6-foot-3, 290-pound interior force who played his college football at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
Wiggles gives Rome an imposing presence along the defensive front. At 290 pounds, his size and physicality should make him a valuable piece as the Red Cats begin assembling their defense.
Being the franchise’s first signee also gives Wiggles a unique place in Red Cats history.
Long before the team’s first snap or its first victory, Wiggles became the first player to officially join the new organization.
The Red Cats’ second signing addressed perhaps the most important position on the field.
Rome brought in quarterback Tommie Nelly, a 6-foot-2, 200-pound passer who comes to the Red Cats after playing for the Columbus Lions indoor football club.
Nelly’s experience in a fast-paced indoor football environment should give him valuable experience as he takes on the challenge of helping establish a new professional franchise.
At 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds, Nelly has the size to operate from the pocket while bringing experience from a style of football that demands quick decisions and execution.
Finally, the Rome Red Cats have added its first weapon to their receiving corps with the signing of Bentley Allen, a wide receiver out of Newberry College. Allen brings collegiate experience and athleticism to the Red Cats’ offense, giving the team another dynamic option in the passing game. His ability to create separation and make plays downfield should make him an intriguing addition as Rome continues to build its roster for the upcoming season.
