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The Utah Warriors have added seven players to their senior pre-season training roster ahead of the 2021 Major League Rugby season. Among them are former NFL signings Aaron Wade and Logan Tago. All seven appeared for the Warriors Selects during their fall exhibition campaign.
Wade signed for the Cleveland Browns in May 2019 as an undrafted free agent after excelling as a defensive back with Utah State. He did not ultimately make the 53-man roster and will now try to use his speed and athleticism to earn a wing spot with the Warriors.
Tago was a powerhouse defensive lineman for Washington State before signing for the Seattle Seahawks in August 2019, playing in one pre-season game. The CFL’s Montreal Alouettes signed him in February of his year but the season was ultimately cancelled before any games were played. He has been playing on the wing but will now change his focus to the midfield.
American Samoa 7s representative Joseph Mano, another wing, will also have a shot at an MLR contract. Also included is Cumorah Saulala, the 24-year-old son of former USA international Alatini Saulala. Both are affiliated with local Salt Lake City Gladiators club side.
There are three forwards including 20-year-old David Perez, a native of Mexico who will switch from the back row to loosehead prop. Former Chapman Panthers tight end Kal Kistner is one of two locks invited, the other BYU standout James Mocke. The latter was a 2020 nominee for the Rudy Scholz award as the best collegiate rugby player in the country.
