The Reading Express have added the first quarterback to their 2012 roster. The Express have signed Scranton, Pa., native A.J. McKenna to challenge for the starting quarterback role next season.
McKenna enjoyed a stellar collegiate career at Albany State University in Albany, Ga. In his final two college seasons, he started 16 games. He particularly shined in 2009, leading the Golden Rams to an 8-3 overall record and an NCAA Division II playoff berth. McKenna led the team's offense with 2,355 yards of total offense. In 11 games, he passed for 2,027 yards, completing 154 of 288 passes for 19 touchdowns and rushed for 328 yards on 92 carries for a touchdown.
That success on the field netted McKenna the 2009 Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference MVP Award. He was also named the 2009 Offensive Player of the Year after leading the conference in touchdowns.
During a Pro Day workout with other NCAA Division II prospects in March 2010, McKenna was clocked at 4.73 seconds in the 40-yard dash and registered a 31-inch vertical leap. He caught the eye of many NFL scouts, and eventually ended up in a New Orleans Saints mini-camp in 2010.
“A.J. has NFL prototypical size and strength,” said Mark Steinmeyer, head coach of the Reading Express. “He has all the tools to be playing on Sunday afternoons. We are excited to have A.J. join our team and help us continue the success we have had as a professional organization. He can make every throw in the indoor and outdoor game. Fans will be excited to see him play.”
The Reading Express are one of the most established franchises in indoor football. In six full seasons, the team has amassed an overall record of 73-27 with five division championships, two conference titles and the 2009 AIFA National Championship. In 2011, Reading began play as a new member of the Indoor Football League and captured the league’s Atlantic Division title. The team plays on The Reading Hospital Medical Group Field at Sovereign Center in Reading, Pa.
Photo by Michael Herbert of the New Orleans Saints
