Three Golden Flashes Land Post NFLDraft Deals
5/1/2023 3:10:00 PM | Football
KENT-The Golden Flashes saw a trio of former players sign un-drafted free agent (UDFA) deals this weekend following the NFL Draft in Kansas City.
Safety Nico Bolden signed a deal with the Carolina Panthers, tight end Kris Leach agreed to terms with the Denver Broncos and linebacker Marvin Pierre inked with the Arizona Cardinals.
Bolden enjoyed two strong seasons with the Golden Flashes after transferring from New Mexico. The safety appeared in 23 games for the Flashes, recording 188 tackles including 103 last season. His 64 solo tackles also led the team and were good for second in the MAC. Bolden recorded 3.5 tackles for loss, including a sack, broke up five passes, picked off two and forced a pair of fumbles.Â
Leach played three seasons in Kent after transferring from Western Kentucky. An elite blocking tight end, he played a huge role in the Flashes leading the nation in total offense in 2020 and averaging over 200 yards on the ground each of the past two seasons. He was also an excellent red zone threat, recording a trio of touchdown receptions, in 2022, Leach grabbed nine passes for 94 yards.
Like Bolden, Pierre spent two years at Kent State as a graduate transfer from Murray State. In 25 games, the linebacker recorded 149 stops including 96 in 2022. A disruptive force for the Flashes, Pierre recorded 11 tackles for loss, broke up three passes, intercepted another and forced a pair of fumbles.
The trio will report to their team's respective rookie camps and team mini camps with the goal of making the 53-man roster or practice squad.
