Rush wide receiver Gray grabs more AFL honors

Chicago Rush wide receiver Reggie Gray has been awarded the AFL Spalding Highlight of the Week to commemorate his record-breaking touchdown catch in Sunday’s the victory over Iowa.

Shortly after halftime, Rush quarterback Russ Michna connected with Gray on a 34-yard touchdown toss that was his second touchdown reception of the day. The catch allowed Gray to surpass Etu Molden for the most all-purpose touchdowns in team history.

“There’s nothing like playing in front of your hometown and actually breaking a record of someone like (Etu) Molden. It’s a great accomplishment,” Gray said.

Since breaking onto the Arena Football scene in 2011, Gray has moved quickly to attain career marks of 186 receptions, 2,740 yards and 70 touchdowns. His rookie performance in 2011 broke team single-season records for points scored (322) and receptions (130).

This year has continued the scoring trend, but a new catch leader in Jared Perry has lessened the load on the 5-foot-10, 175-pound Gray.

“I don’t have to do as much as I did last year. It feels great to pull coverage and (have) guys be wide open to make plays. I’m excited to see two (defenders) going with me, I’m jumping thinking someone has to be wide open,” added Gray.

Gray will attempt to break the tie for another team record, all-time receiving touchdowns, as the Rush (6-2) travel to Phoenix to take on the Arizona Rattlers (5-3) at 8 p.m. Saturday.