 And in 2008, the "jack" linebacker was allowed to go sideboard to sideboard without being penalized for "illegal defense".After 12 years as commissioner of the AFL, David Baker retired unexpectedly on July 25, 2008, just two days before ArenaBowl XXII; deputy commissioner Ed Policy was named interim commissioner until Baker's replacement was found.Baker explained, "When I took over as commissioner, I thought it would be for one year.