Frenzy News - Harrison takes paycut to join Predators

[Preds]

Marvelous Marv leaves the crypt

Hamburg, NY
by Rhett Zoan

In a stunning twist to a rather dull start to the Frenzy’s 2005 RFA season, Marvin Harrison has come to contract terms (and been given his walking papers) with the Undead’s division rivals, the Parkwood Predators. Harrison leaves the Undead after a couple very successful seasons leading their youthful WR’s corps.

In an early morning interview with Harrison, he told me the following:

"I almost left a year ago (to the Mutts), but ownership wouldn’t grant my wishes to leave. They felt that Chad needed another season of tutelage. This year, I actively campaigned management to be let free, regardless of what it might mean from a pay perspective…. it’s just too dark and creepy in that organization, and what’s with the move to Ypsilanti? Has anyone even heard of the place?"

Asked why he chose the Predators (for a deep paycut no less) Marvin stated:

"I’m just extremely happy to be joining an organization with such a tradition of excellence. I’ve squared off against them twice a year for a couple seasons now, and have had some career games against them. They know what their getting, as do I. We’re both winners, money wasn’t the issue."

Predators GM Mike SantaLucia has released the following statement from the team this morning regarding the signing:

"Early this morning, the league informed us that the Ypsilanti Undead have elected not to match our offer sheet to WR Marvin Harrison. Thus, we are excited to announce a great addition to our team as we enter into the 2005 season.

In our discussions with Marvin, he had indicated a great desire to join our club, and imparted upon us a clear understanding that he had requested his release form the Undead and that it would be granted. In light of this, we worked out favorable contract terms to both sides. Only one other team entered the bidding for Marvin’s services, and they were not felt to be a genuine suiter.

We look forward to Marvin leading our young corps of WR’s. Jerry Porter and Andre Johnson will gain a lot from his presence on the field, as will youngsters Samie Parker and Jericho Cotchery."

Curiously, there was no mention of how this move will impact star WR Hines Ward, who has been the teams premier WR since it’s inception 4 season ago.

The team also announced this morning that they will be retaining the Baltimore Ravens defensive unit, matching the offer sheet that was ironically made by the Undead.