Cardwell and Michael Pruitt Signed by Desperados

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Desperados sign former E. Texas QB

10:59 PM CDT on Wednesday, October 12, 2005

By EVAN MILLAR / The Dallas Morning News

IRVING – The Dallas Desperados on Wednesday announced the signing of quarterback Clint Dolezel, one of the Arena Football League's top career passers.

Dolezel, in his 11th season, will replace former starter Clint Stoerner, who was traded to Nashville.

"We were very happy with what Clint Stoerner had done, but you're always looking to improve things," coach Will McClay said. "The opportunity to get Clint Dolezel was a no-brainer."

Dolezel ranks fourth all time in passing yards (32,679), attempts (4,231) and touchdowns (660) and is second in completions (2,763) and percentage (65.3).

He spent the last two seasons with the Las Vegas Gladiators, and he led Grand Rapids to a championship in 2001. The Desperados are Dolezel's third team in Texas. He also was with the Texas Terror and the Houston Thunderbirds.

Dolezel said Dallas' receiving corps was a big reason he signed. "They make my job a lot easier."

Dolezel and McClay were together in 1995, during Dolezel's rookie season with the Milwaukee Mustangs. McClay was the team's defensive coordinator.

By trading Stoerner, the Desperados acquired defender Tony Scott from Nashville and offensive lineman Devin Wyman from San Jose. The team also signed fullbacks Evan Cardwell and Mike Pruitt and offensive linemen Norris McCleary and Daleroy Stewart.

E-mail emillar@dallasnews.com