Joe Blanks became the second member of the Erie Storm 2010 roster to accept a contract with an Arena Football League Franchise. Blanks (6’3, 315) a graduate of Erie Cathedral Prep and Winston Salem State signed with the Tulsa Talons. In his professional indoor rookie season with Erie, Blanks was part of a pass protection unit that gave up only 20 sacks in 525 pass attempts during the 2010 season. “I am very happy for Joe to get an opportunity to further his career with Tulsa in the Arena Football League. It is always a positive when our franchise can be a vehicle for players to advance their careers to the next level. We have had two players sign AFL deals in the last two weeks and I would not be surprised to see a few more of our players advance in the future,” commented Erie Head Coach Shawn Liotta.