Shock trade QB Rummell to Manchester

Some have heard the rumors, and some of the rumors are true.

The truth: quarterback Justin Rummell will not be throwing for the Spokane Shock this season.

But Rummell, last season’s backup quarterback, was not released – a claim that originally leaked onto the Shock Web site message boards and has caused quite a stir. He was traded to the Manchester, N.H., Wolves for future considerations – which means at a later date. If Shock coach Adam Shackleford likes someone on Manchester’s roster, he can resubmit a trade request that could either be approved or denied.

Shackleford said Monday the decision, which Rummell was made aware of Sunday, was not easy.

“We based it off practices and the scrimmage,” said Shackleford. “There was no doubt in our minds that (Jason) Murietta had won the starting job, so at that point I sat down with Justin, told him the situation, and instead of releasing him, we traded him so he could have the opportunity to start somewhere else.

“I think anyone would be disappointed. I don’t question that he liked it and wanted to be here. It was his job to lose – we told him that coming in. Murietta came in and beat him out.”

Murietta started and played the first two quarters in the Shock’s 63-32 exhibition victory over the Tri-Cities Fever Thursday. He completed 19 of 23 passes for 176 yards and four touchdowns.

Rummell and Nick Davila each played one quarter. Rummell was 7 of 11 for 88 yards and two touchdowns. Davila connected on 7 of 13 passes for 78 yards and two TDs.

Rummell, who was on his way home to Indiana on Monday, was clearly disappointed with the situation and said he felt misled, but was happy to know he is going to a place where he has the starting nod.

“I am looking forward to going to Manchester,” said Rummell. “When (the trade) happened, I called all the veterans – like Rico (Ochoa) and Rob Keefe – and I talked to Keefe for over an hour. They were pretty disappointed too, but Rob has a lot of connections in the arena league and he told me it’s a great situation.

“Then I talked to (Manchester) coach (Danton Barto) and he said he already announced me as the starter.”

Rummell added that the Wolves have a bye this week, giving him more time to learn Barto’s system.

Shackleford also made trades Monday. Wide receiver Michael DePreist was dealt to the Amarillo Dusters and fullback Ken Williams to the expansion Peoria (Ariz.) Pirates – both for future considerations.

The Shock’s regular-season opener is Sunday in Green Bay.

“We’re extremely happy with the guys we have,” said Shackleford, whose roster stands at 22. “Those were some tough cuts and we traded a lot of guys instead of cutting them. We felt they were guys that could play in this league for somebody and when other teams called, we made sure to try and place them in the best possible situation.”