Autograph Memorabilia
Stampede Inaugural Magazine Austin Wranglers
Acquired: Gift 2004
My cousin got me a game program full of autographs back in 2004, that I found recently when digging through some boxes.
Jahine Arnold came to the Austin Wranglers in 2004 after a stint with the Los Angeles Avengers and Tampa Bay Storm in 2003. Previously he spent 2 seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers utilized primarily as a backup returner, but injuries limited his effectiveness and he was traded to Green Bay. He’d be drafted by the Birmingham Thunderbolts of the XFL in 2001 and was waived in camp, but was quickly signed by the Memphis Maniax.
After retiring from pro football Arnold spent some time as a web designer and in real estate, however in 2007 he was tragically diagnosed with the same progressive liver disease as Walter Payton.Currently fighting what is known as Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis, Jahine has established a foundation and refuses to go down. On top of that without insurance, Arnold has been battling with the Social Security Administration for the benefits he should be entitled to. He’s been involved in kids football camps in his spare time as well.
After finishing his 2004 season with the Austin Wranglers, Skinny took a season off. He would play one final season with the Arizona Rattlers in 2005 before retiring. An offensive specialist Culver is a notable veteran of the XFL playing for the Orlando Rage in 2001 where he recorded 10 receptions for 165 yards and a TD, to go along with 39 punt returns for 250 yards. A two way player for the Anaheim Piranhas in 1997, at both receiver and defensive back, he led the team with 16 touchdowns and 769 yards to go along with 2 picks. In 1994 he was a member of the infamous CFL Baltimore Colts/Stallions club and also saw time on the rosters of the Rampage, Avengers, and Desperados as well.
After graduating from Tulsa University in 1972, Pearson would sign a free agent contract with the Dallas Cowboys in 1973. After a typical rookie season with 22 receptions for 388 yards, Drew’s career would take off in 1974 as he’d make his first 1000 yard season on 62 receptions. He’d make at least 700 yards the next 4 seasons, and again break the 1000 yard barrier in 1979 tying his career high with 8 touchdowns receiving. As the 80s rolled around Pearson’s statistics would slowly spiral down until his retirement after the 1983 season. Among his accomplishments are 3 SuperBowl appearances and one victory. Known to fans as “Mr. Clutch” for his ability to make big plays when they counted, Pearson also caught the infamous ‘hail mary’ in the 1975 playoffs against the Vikings. A 3 time Pro Bowl and AP, Pearson is a member of the NFL 1970s All Decade Team.
Dallas fans will always claim that Pearson not being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame is an injustice and while I do see some merit to the argument, if you base it off of SuperBowl appearances- his statistics do not. There are many NFL wide receivers who have not made it into the HoF who had bigger numbers and a Super Bowl appearance or two. Despite this Pearson should at least be in the Cowboys Ring of Honor however as of this date he has not been enshrined due to a public feud with Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones over the Cowboys logo and Pearson’s athletic gear.