CHRIS LONG

BEARCATS ADD SIZE TO THE SECONDARY WITH CHRIS LONG

The Jersey Bearcats are adding a sizable presence to their defensive backfield for 2027 with the signing of Chris Long, a California native whose college career includes Kansas Wesleyan University and the University of La Verne.

Listed at 6-foot-5 and 220 pounds on Kansas Wesleyan’s 2023 roster, Long brings an imposing frame to the secondary. The Compton native joined the Coyotes with a background at Los Angeles Valley College before later competing at La Verne. His path gives him experience across multiple college programs as he prepares for his next opportunity in Jersey.

That size creates an intriguing possibility for the Bearcats. In arena football, where passing windows close quickly and defensive backs must operate in tight spaces, a taller defender can offer valuable reach at the catch point and a different matchup against bigger receivers.

Long’s transition to the indoor game will bring a new challenge: adjusting to the speed, spacing, and precision demanded by arena offenses. His college background provides a foundation, while his frame gives Jersey a distinctive addition to develop within its defensive system.

For the Bearcats, the signing adds competition and another option in the defensive backfield as the team builds toward the 2027 season. Long now has the opportunity to turn his college experience into a role on Jersey’s defense and establish himself in the arena game.

Chris Long is bringing his next chapter to Jersey.