Slaughter roster takes shape

In preparation for its first year in the Indoor Football League, the Chicago Slaughter has re-signed nine players from last year's undefeated team and added a former NFL veteran and a recent Florida State standout.

Last week the Slaughter signed Jarrett Payton, son of legendary Chicago Bears great Walter Payton, as the team's running back for the 2010 season,

Among the returning players is star defensive back Dennison Robinson, who was AFL Defensive MVP in 2008.

Place kicker Chris Nendick returns after completing a record-breaking season in 2009 culminating in 52-yard field goal in the championship game and leading the Slaughter to an undefeated perfect season and the 2009 CIFL Championship. The former NIU star and Naperville native averaged nearly 9 points a game in 2009.

Also joining the 2010 roster are Orland Park native and former NFL offensive lineman Jeff Roehl and Florida State wide receiver D'Cody Fagg. Roehl played college ball for Notre Dame before transferring to Northwestern, where he played offensive guard and eventually helped the Wildcats win the Big Ten Conference Championship in 2000. He has also spent time with the New York Giants, Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots.

Fagg had 54 catches for 758 yards as a senior for FSU in 2007 and led the team with 5 touchdown receptions.

Other players returning in the 2010 season include defensive linemen Lionel Williams and Chris Pisani, defensive back, Brandon Fields, linebacker Lenny Radtke, and offensive linemen Jon Binish, Jason Bakas and Rasche Hill.

"We're very excited to be putting together such a strong veteran roster this early in the signing process," said Alan Perkins, Slaughter general manager. "We anticipate a great start in the IFL come February kick-off."

Offensive coordinator Pat Pistorio will also return for the 2010 season. During the 2009 season, Pistorio's offense averaged a league leading 65 points per game. Keith Hac will return as Defensive Coordinator for the Slaughter 2010 season.

Slaughter fans may purchase tickets by calling the Slaughter office at (847) 310-3190 or visiting the team's website atchicagoslaughter.com.