Venom Ink Two More from Championship Team
Veteran George Murray and Zachary Ducker sign to rejoin the team.
NASHVILLE (August 24, 2014)- After signing a key component of the defense in DT Walter Thomas, General Manager/Head Coach Billy Back worked on the offensive side of the ball signing veteran WR George Murray and Zachary Ducker to contracts today. Terms of both deals were not disclosed.
Murray caught 51 passes for 551 yards and 13 TDs in the regular season last season. The fifth year veteran added nine catches for 99 yards and one TD in the playoffs. The versatile Murray was also called upon early in the season to play QB. He completed 35 of 67 passes for 414 yards. He threw 10 TDs and four interceptions in two games. He also rushed 11 times for 62 yards and two TDs.
![Venom wide receiver George Murray]()
- Venom wide receiver George Murray and family
Ducker played sparingly in his rookie season with the Venom. He grabbed two passes for 35 yards and rushed one time for four yards. Ducker like Murray is also versatile. He is currently undefeated at QB for the Nashville Storm of the Gridiron Developmental Football League. He is trying to lead the Storm to their second consecutive championship.
“Having guys that play multiple positions is important in this league,” said Back. When George and Zach dress we can play them at receiver and they both can be called upon if needed at QB. That frees up a roster space on game days for us. George also helps us because he is a tireless worker. He shows our young players how to prepare correctly and what it takes to play at this level. Zach is a pure athlete. To be honest we really didn’t know how to use him last season. Now that he has a season under his belt he will see the field a lot more. I am excited to have these guys sign. They both bring a lot to the table.”
![Venom Quarterback Zachary Ducker]()
- Venom Quarterback Zachary Ducker
Before the playoffs in 2014, Murray contemplated retiring after the season. His desire was to be more available to his family. His wife and children were mainstays at Venom games and practices. Immediately after the championship game he changed his mind and voiced his desire to come back for another season.
“My family is important to me so they all were part of this decision,” said Murray. Being in Nashville made it easier for them to come to my games. They loved it there so the response was a resounding yes when I asked them if they want me to still play. Winning a championship at my age makes you want to do it again. Most young guys think it is easy when they get it early in their career. Winning just makes me hungrier for more. We are excited to be back in the fold. The time is now for me to prepare to win another one.”