[MIJB#19]

Thong' stays with Merchantmen for 2089 season
The Maassluis Merchantmen today announced the extended services of running back Reggie Thongchanh. The Merchantmen leading rusher of the last two seasons agreed to a new two-year $16M contract. Overall interest in Thong' was limited, but an offer from the Chicago Norsemen gave enough competition to get this deal done. It makes Thongchanh' the eight highest player on roster.

Fond of keeping players around, the Merchantmen felt relieved to salvage their fourth round pick from four seasons ago. Thong' is familiar with the franchise and has plenty of experience playing behind the current state of the art offensive line. All that said, Thong's role as the starter are no guarantee. The Merchantmen currently have 5 running backs on roster, all returning from last season. Especially third-year pro and last season's RB2 Francisco Patter feels like he's ready to take over. But as both Thong' and Patter struggle with endurance, splitting the carries is a logically solution to the situation. Thong's contract is release friendly as he worked out a modest signing bonus of just $2M, perhaps feeling confident he'll win the main ball carrier role.

Together with Thong', five other free agents signed a new deal in Maassluis. Contrary to Thong', they were all restricted free agents. Tight end Jeffery Blake, winde receiver Santiago Messenger, cornerback Ted Frias, and safeties Salvador Harper and Bert Sword signed various lengths of deals, all until at least the 2090 season.