David Calderon

JERSEY BEARCATS SIGN ARENA FOOTBALL VETERAN DAVID CALDERON FOR 2027 SEASON

Experienced defensive end brings a proven track record of defensive production, versatility, and leadership to the Jersey Bearcats.

NEW JERSEY — The Jersey Bearcats are strengthening their defensive front with the signing of veteran defensive end David “Dave” Calderon for the 2027 season, adding an experienced arena football player whose professional career spans multiple teams and leagues.

Calderon arrives with an established résumé in professional indoor football, having competed with the Wyoming Mustangs, Iowa Barnstormers, and Shreveport Rouxgaroux, along with earning a spot on the Philadelphia Soul’s 2024 roster.

Known for his explosive first step, physical playing style, and ability to disrupt opposing offenses, Calderon brings the type of experience that can make an immediate impact in the fast-paced environment of arena football.

A Proven Force in the Indoor Football League

One of the defining chapters of Calderon’s professional career came with the Iowa Barnstormers of the Indoor Football League (IFL), where he developed into a productive and respected member of the defensive front.

During the 2022 season, Calderon appeared in 14 games and delivered an impressive statistical performance:

• 29.5 total tackles
• 14.5 tackles for loss
• 4.5 quarterback sacks
• 3 pass breakups
• 1 forced fumble

His ability to consistently penetrate opposing backfields made him a valuable presence on Iowa’s defense. Averaging more than one tackle for loss per game, Calderon demonstrated the strength, quickness, and football instincts necessary to excel in the confined spaces of indoor football.

His performance earned him a return to Iowa for the 2023 season.

Former Barnstormers head coach Dave Mogensen publicly praised Calderon’s contributions, recognizing both his leadership and his production along the defensive line. Mogensen also indicated that Calderon had been performing near the top of the league among defensive linemen before injuries affected the latter portion of his 2022 season.

Beyond his defensive contributions, Calderon demonstrated impressive versatility, taking snaps at fullback in goal-line situations and contributing touchdowns on offense.

Experience Across Multiple Arena Football Leagues

Calderon’s professional indoor football journey began with the Wyoming Mustangs of Champions Indoor Football (CIF) in 2021.

He went on to establish himself with the Iowa Barnstormers in 2022 and 2023, gaining valuable experience in the highly competitive IFL.

In 2024, Calderon was named to the Philadelphia Soul’s Arena Football League roster, listed as a fullback and defensive lineman. His ability to contribute in multiple roles reflected the versatility he had demonstrated throughout his indoor career.

Calderon continued his professional journey in 2025 with the Shreveport Rouxgaroux of the National Arena League (NAL).

During that season, he remained an active contributor along Shreveport’s defensive front. A May 2025 game preview credited Calderon with 13 tackles and 4.5 tackles for loss, further demonstrating his ability to make plays behind the line of scrimmage.

His experience across different organizations and indoor football systems provides him with a valuable understanding of the speed, physicality, and preparation required to compete at the professional arena level.

Built on a Strong Collegiate Foundation

Before beginning his professional career, Calderon played collegiate football at the University of New Haven and Kutztown University.

During three seasons at New Haven, he appeared in 29 games, recording 72 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, and 10 sacks.

He later finished his collegiate career at Kutztown, appearing in 10 games and adding 29 tackles and 10 tackles for loss.

That foundation helped prepare Calderon for the transition into professional indoor football, where his combination of strength, leverage, and defensive versatility became defining elements of his playing style.

Bringing Veteran Experience to the Bearcats

For the Jersey Bearcats, Calderon’s addition represents more than another defensive signing.

He brings years of professional arena football experience, a history of producing against high-level competition, and the leadership that comes from competing in multiple organizations.

His ability to line up at different positions along the defensive front gives the Bearcats additional flexibility, while his understanding of the indoor game provides valuable experience as the team prepares for the upcoming season.

A New Jersey football product, Calderon’s arrival also marks an opportunity to continue his professional career closer to his home-state roots.

As the Jersey Bearcats prepare for the 2027 season, David Calderon brings a proven arena football résumé, a relentless approach to the game, and the experience to help strengthen the team’s defensive identity.

Welcome to the Jersey Bearcats, David Calderon.

Jersey Bearcats | American Arena League | 2027 Season