On June 26th, the Houston Roughnecks added two more rookies to their roster, bringing the total rookie count to 20. More information on these two players can be found below.
Michael Marchese, TE, Illinois
Marchese played at Illinois for six seasons, but up until two years ago, had not caught a pass. While he is listed as a tight end, Marchese started his collegiate career as both a safety and a linebacker, mostly playing on special teams. From 2017 to 2020, he recorded 44 total tackles, 5 pass deflections, 2 interceptions, and 2 fumble recoveries. In 2021, Marchese made the transition over to offense, which appeared to be a good decision. In 2022, he caught 9 passes for 142 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Bryce Petersen, OL, Nevada
Petersen transferred to Nevada in 2022 as a graduate student, starting nine games at center. He previously played at Akron, where he started all 24 games between the 2018 and 2019 seasons (22 at center, 2 at left guard). Going back even further, Petersen was a true freshman standout at Riverside City College, starting 11 games during the 2017 season.
In addition to these signings, former Roughnecks fullback Sewo Olonilua was picked up by the Orlando Guardians. Olonilua becomes the second Houston player to join the Guardians along with defensive lineman Trevon Mason.
TechyList
August 26, 2023 at 2:41 pm
Houston Roughnecks add two rookies to their roster for the 2024 season.