Graziani Appears Set to Join Soul

Tony Graziani, one of the top quarterbacks in the Arena Football League during three-plus seasons with the Avengers, is expected to sign a free-agent contract today with the Philadelphia Soul, according to league sources.

Graziani passed for 99 touchdowns with only five interceptions last season. His efficiency rating was second in the AFL behind San Jose’s Mark Grieb.

Graziani declined to comment.

Sources said Philadelphia was not expected to announce the signing until after the league approves the contract next week.

Offensive specialist Chris Jackson also is a free agent. Jackson said he was considering offers from Philadelphia, Georgia and Grand Rapids.

Avenger spokesman John Tamanaha said the Avengers have tried to re-sign Graziani. He said the Avengers have had talks with free-agent quarterbacks Grieb and Jim Kubiak and also were exploring trades.

-- Gary Klein