Following their first win of the season, an overtime 24-22 victory over the Houston Gamblers, the Louisville Kings made a flurry of roster changes.
Chris Redman Sheds Light On Recent Roster Changes
First, the news broke on Sunday afternoon that the Kings traded quarterback Jason Bean to the D. C. Defenders for quarterback Mike DiLiello, then came the news that due to injury, running back Benny Snell had been released. Later that day, the Kings announced the release of starting left tackle Leroy Watson and left guard Nash Jenson.
Earlier today, coach Chris Redman met with the media to shed some light on the reasons behind the changes. Redman made it clear the season is far from over, and the Kings are a far better team than their 1-3 record indicates. However, to put the team in the best position to make a playoff run and be competitive for the UFL postseason, changes were necessary.
“We feel like we’re right in there. There’s four teams that only have one win. We feel like it’s anybody’s game. That’s the beauty of this league. We have so much confidence right now, being one and three. These guys..we feel like we're trending in the right direction.”
Addressing the quarterback trade first, Redman indicated the trade was prompted by the decision to make Chandler Rogers the Kings' starting quarterback.
At the time the trade was announced, Redman said of Rogers, "We are really excited to see Chandler get an opportunity to lead our team. He is a team-first player who is ready for this challenge put before him.”
This afternoon, he praised Rogers' leadership and the discipline he exhibits in preparing for games.
“He knows how to make plays, and he’s a great leader, on and off the field.. He’s got the DNA it takes to be an upper quarterback in this league and the upper echelon of elite quarterbacks.” Mentioning his work ethic, he said Rogers is constantly working and was in on his day off today, working out.
Talking about Snell's release, Redman said that with the recent addition of James Robinson, and the return from injury of Jaden Shiden and Ian Wheeler, the team would have had four RB's on the roster. Following his recent Week 3 performance of 12 carries for 50 yards, Snell suffered an injury last week. Consequently, he became the odd man out. However, Redman was complimentary about Snell's contribution and didn't rule out a return if the situation warranted it.
Last week, making his debut with the Kings, Robinson scored the team's first rushing touchdown. With the intention of further strengthening the ground game, Redman said changes to the offensive line were required. In addition to signing former Michigan Panthers offensive lineman Chim Okorafor earlier this month, the Kings acquired Dohnovan West at left guard.
The Kings will be on the road this weekend, traveling to Dallas to take on the Dallas Renegades on Sunday, April 26th at 3:00 PM ET.