The Tampa Bay Storm continued to retain some of its key contributors Friday with announcing the return of defensive lineman Pernell Phillips.

“Pernell was a leader on the defensive line last season,” said vice president of football operations Jeff Gooch.  “He provides us with a consistent pass rush and adds stability to the defensive line.”

Phillips (6-foot-1, 270 lbs., Central State (OH)) returns for his second season in the AFL and with the Storm.  During his rookie season he led the team with seven sacks.  Phillips also recorded 24 tackles, nine for a loss, had four pass breakups, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery returned for a touchdown in the Tampa Bay’s, 62-46, victory over the Kansas City Command. 

He began his professional career with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2009 as an undrafted rookie free agent.