Stampeders sign AFL MVP D'Orazio

Feb 13, 2009 - 5:58 PM CALGARY, Alberta (Ticker) -- The Calgary Stampeders on Friday signed quarterback Matt D'Orazio, who was the MVP of the AFL last season.

In addition, the Stampeders re-signed versatile wide receiver-kick returner Markus Howell and punter Mike Renaud.

Terms were not disclosed.

D'Orazio, 32, lit up the now-suspended AFL, passing for 3,331 yards with 72 touchdowns and four interceptions in 2008.

The 6-4, 215-pounder led the Philadelphia Soul to victory in Arena Bowl XXII and was named the game's most valuable player. He was without a job after the league announced it was temporarily shutting down operations in December.

"Matt's credentials in the Arena League are outstanding," Calgary head coach and general manager John Hufnagel said. "He was the league MVP last season and the MVP of the Arena Bowl. He's a veteran quarterback who has some very good skills and is a proven winner."

Howell played in 16 regular-season games last season, returning 67 punts for 591 yards and nine kickoffs for 194 yards. He added one catch for 31 yards and three special-teams tackles.

"Markus is a very versatile player who happens to be a non-import," Hufnagel said.

"Not only did he play all special teams for us last season but he also was a backup in the defensive secondary and an emergency receiver. That kind of versatility is rare and it's very valuable to a football team."

The 6-3, 215 Renaud played for Monchengladbach of the German Football League last season.