8 Newly Acquired XFL Players to Get Excited About
8 newly acquired XFL players to get excited about approaching the 2024 XFL season. Please note not every player on this list has signed their Letter of Intent to join the XFL in 2024. With Merger talks still inbound and ongoing it is possible that none of these players play for their respective teams.
By Pat Rifino
Chris Odom Claimed by the Orlando Guardians
Odom has been around the block a couple of times since coming out of Ark State as a UDFA IN 2017. He’s spent time with the Falcons, Packers, Redskins, along with stints in the AAF (Salt Lake Stallions), and the USFL’s Houston Gamblers where he earned All-USFL, and DPOY Honors in 2022. Odom spent the fall of 2022 on the Browns’ injured reserve due to a torn ACL, and per his agent is ready to strap it on for the 2024 season.
Jeff Thomas Claimed by the St. Louis Battlehawks
Thomas came to fame with his appearance on 89 Blocks in 2016. Thomas was highly recruited out of East St. Louis, committing to the University of Miami and becoming a dynamic piece for the Hurricanes when on the field. In 2020 Thomas declared for the NFL, spending time with the Patriots before joining the USFL for 2022, and part of 2023. A USFL Champion, whose only 25 Thomas can be a crucial piece in supplementing the Battlehawks Receiving Corps which is now missing Hakeem Butler, Darrius Shepherd, Marcell Ateman, and Gary Jennings. Thomas also saw playing time as a Kick Returner, and Punt Returner in the USFL and at Miami offering versatility for the Battlehawks.
Tavon Austin Claimed by the Houston Roughnecks
Any time a dynamic player with a 1st Round Pedigree, along with 5,576 All-Purpose Yards and 29 Touchdowns it’s bound to garner a decent amount of excitement. Austin was at one point a top returner in the NFL, while also being utilized as a gadget player during his NFL career. While Austin is a bit long in the tooth, he seems to be still motivated to play football based on his Twitter page. Coupling Austin with XFL offensive coordinator AJ Smith and Houston could continue their trend of being one of the most dynamic offenses in 2024.
Gareon Conley Claimed by the DC Defenders
Conley is another NFL 1st Round Pick making his way to the XFL. After being out of football since 2020, Conley’s rights were claimed by the DC Defenders and could have an alt-league resurgence under DC Gregg Williams. An All-Conference College CB, Conley if placed in the correct system could become one of the feel-good stories of the XFL like many before him.
Darrell Henderson Claimed by the Arlington Renegades
Super Bowl champions are always fun and bound to draw eyeballs when they find themselves in Alt-leagues. Henderson is a Memphis Alum (where Brady White played), and was a 3rd round pick in the 2019 Draft. Totaling over 1700 rushing yards in his NFL career, the all-purpose running back should assist a running back room that houses De’Veon Smith, Brian Herrien, and Leddie Brown, especially with Alt-League fixture Kenneth Farrow retiring from Football.
Anthony Cioffi Claimed by the Vegas Vipers
The Jersey Boy returns to Pro Football after spending 2023 out of the USFL and XFL. Cioffi was a UDFA out of Rutgers in 2017, spending time in the CFL, and USFL, along with short stints in the NFL with the Jets, and Raiders. In 2022, Cioffi was a fixture in the Tampa Bay Bandits Defensive Backfield, before getting released in January of 2023. After attending the XFL’s Showcases and Combine Cioffi now joins a new Vipers coaching staff for his 7th season in pro football.
Calvin Jackson Claimed by Seattle Sea Dragons
Another celebrity from Netflix’s Last Chance U, Jackson spent two seasons at Independence Community College (KS), before going to Washington State. After a “successful” college career, Jackson had stints with the Jets, and Dolphins, and even went up north to the CFL before finding his way to the XFL.
TJ Edwards Claimed by San Antonio Brahmas
A D-II stud from the GLVC, Edwards has been tearing up the IFL and now gets a shot to prove his skill set at the outdoor level. Edwards led the Fighters to a 14-2 record and totaled 853 yards on the ground, 49 rushing touchdowns along with leading the IFL with 2,600 passing yards and 39 passing touchdowns en route to an MVP award. After a couple of seasons in the IFL, Edwards is primed to take over in 2024 for a Brahmas team looking for someone to take control of that Offense.
Please note not every player on this list has signed their Letter of Intent to join the XFL in 2024. With Merger talks still inbound and ongoing it is possible that none of these players play for their respective teams.
Each XFL Team’s Most NFL Ready Player
A big form of advertising for any Alt-Football League is the ability to transition their players to the world's highest form of football, the NFL. Each player that leaves the XFL or USFL, tells the story of struggle, dedication, and perseverance, to battle through the trials of Spring Football, and make their way back to the mecca of the major sports. With the XFL already going into Week 4, of their season several players have already begun making their claim to return back to the NFL, below are each team’s most NFL-ready players so far this season.
By Pat Rifino
A big form of advertising for any Alt-Football League is the ability to transition their players to the world's highest form of football, the NFL. Each player that leaves the XFL or USFL, tells the story of struggle, dedication, and perseverance, to battle through the trials of Spring Football, and make their way back to the mecca of the major sports. With the XFL already going into Week 4, of their season several players have already begun making their claim to return back to the NFL, below are each team’s most NFL-ready players so far this season.
***For the sake of not being boring Quarterbacks are being excluded from this list***
Arlington Renegades: Darnell Sankey LB
Sankey was a late signing, in the XFL and made his debut in Week 3. Sankey, who started as an undrafted in the NFL, bounced around 5 franchises earning over 300k, before coming up North to the CFL. The career move would end up working out for Sankey, as he earned a CFL All-Star Nod in 2021. Sankey made headlines in February as the Linebacker decided to forgo a contract from the Roughriders that would have made him one of the highest paid Linebackers in the CFL to join the Renegades. Sankey made his debut in week 3 for the Renegades, and was an immediate contributor totaling 8 Tackles, 0.5 sacks, and 2 TFL’s.
DC Defenders: Abram Smith RB
Abram Smith was an All-Conference Running Back at Baylor before going undrafted in 2022. After a failed attempt to latch on with the Saints, Smith was the first overall pick by the Defenders, and hasn’t disappointed. He’s totaled 187 All-Purpose Yards in three games and is currently second in the XFL in Rushing Yards. If Smith continues his consistent level of production, look for Smith to have his number called, once the XFL season is finished.
Houston Roughnecks: Max Borghi RB
Despite being a UDFA in 2022 out of the late Mike Leach’s Washington State, Borghi has already been a member of three NFL teams but unfortunately did not spend any time on an NFL Active Roster, or Practice Squad. None of that matters to Borghi, who has excelled in AJ Smith Houston Roughnecks Offense, totalling over 250 All-Purpose Yards in the XFL. For NFL teams that are looking for versatile options who run, catch, and play special teams, Borghi checks all those options and should have some NFL interest come his way this May. At a minimum NFL teams may want to bring him in just to mimic Christian McCaffrey on the scout team.
Orlando Guardians: Lance Lenoir WR
On an Orlando team that doesn’t have many bright spots, the recent signing of Lance Lenoir should bring a smile to fans of Alt-Football. Lenoir spent 2022 with the USFL’s Michigan Panthers leading the league in receptions and placing second in receiving yards. Lenoir latched on with the Rams in late 2022, however, was not offered a futures deal after the season. A great special teams option, and a veteran of Eight NFL games, look for Lenoir to garner another opportunity in an NFL camp, for a team looking for a special teams contributor, who can pick up a playbook real quick.
San Antonio Brahmas: Kameron Kelly DB
Another CFL vet, Kelly, a Texas native returned home after putting together an All-Star performance in 2022. Kelly, who is still only 26 was thrown into action after signing with San Antonio on February 15th, and has already appeared in two games for the Brahmas. As the season continues to progress, look for Kelly’s impact to increase as he grows as a leader for San Antonio and finds his way back in an NFL training camp.
Seattle Sea Dragons: Josh Gordon WR
I was skeptical about seeing Josh Gordon come to the XFL, as I felt his window had completely closed. Well, after three weeks of the 2023 season, Gordon has emerged as a Top-5 WR, making Ben DiNucci look like Pat Mahomes in this young season. Though he’s 31 years Old, Gordon is primed to get another NFL opportunity as the former All-Pro has consistently been a threat for opposing defenses the past three weeks with no signs of slowing down.
St. Louis Battlehawks: Hakeem Butler WR
Butler had to send Coach Anthony Becht a DM, in an effort to gain some traction for his XFL career. The 2019 4th-Round Pick went to the CFL in 2022 with limited success, before finding his way to St. Louis. With a big body, and the ability to fight for the football, Butler easily is one of the Battlehawks’ more pro-ready skill players and looks to be on his way to compete for an NFL job.
Vegas Vipers: Jeff Badet WR
It blows my mind that Jeff Badet hasn’t recorded a reception in an NFL game but injuries have definitely limited his opportunity. After putting together a solid showing in the 2020 XFL season, Badet bounced around with Washington, Atlanta, and Las Vegas in the 2020 and 2021 NFL seasons. After being primed to be a contributor for the USFL’s Michigan Panthers in 2022, the former Oklahoma WR, once again got bit by the injury bug and found himself released in May. Now finally healthy, Badet joins Butler and Gordon as the league's top echelon of WRs, and with QB Brett Hundley getting comfortable does not appear to be slowing down this season, looking to go straight from an XFL roster to an NFL training camp.
Over the 2020 and 2021 NFL seasons, the XFL has sent almost 70 players to NFL Training Camps, Active Roster, and Practice Squad. While PJ Walker and Taylor Heinicke certainly lead this bunch of Alt-Football “Heroes” it appears that the 2023 rosters brings the next wave of talent moving forward. With the USFL assisting 57 players transition to the NFL, the football wars of talent are in full effect and for players looking for an opportunity to showcase their skills as it doesn’t look like either of these leagues are going anywhere any time soon.
An NFL Quarterback Purge Is Coming and the Alt-Leagues Can Benefit
A QB purge may be coming in the NFL and the implications could trickle down to the XFL and USFL. Last year we talked about the financial earnings of alt-league quarterbacks, and the trials and tribulations many of these men deal with when trying to reach their goals. Mainly it was prompted by the retiring and unretiring (and now subsequent re-retiring) of Tom Brady and how now four QBs’ lives changed due to the return of the GOAT.
By Pat Rifino
A QB purge may be coming in the NFL and the implications could trickle down to the XFL and USFL. Last year we talked about the financial earnings of alt-league quarterbacks, and the trials and tribulations many of these men deal with when trying to reach their goals. Mainly it was prompted by the retiring and unretiring (and now subsequent re-retiring) of Tom Brady and how now four QBs’ lives changed due to the return of the GOAT.
Over the past two off-seasons per Spotrac 10 Quarterbacks have “retired” (RIP to Dwayne Haskins) while it appears the QB movement of off-the-street free agents have slowed down. This year 12 “off the street” QBs were re-signed by the NFL with three of them being released before the season's end. With the lack of movement with back-end QBs and the consistency at the QB1 position it only seems inevitable that a massive purge is coming.
Currently, Aaron Rodgers, Colt McCoy, Joe Flacco, Matt Ryan, Chase Daniel, Brian Hoyer, Josh Johnson, and Andy Dalton are all over 35 and have all been linked to retirement with Tom Brady officially announcing his “re-retirement” last week. While it appears Ryan will stay around for at least another year due to guaranteed money, a guy like Nick Foles who's under 35 and ended the season with a gruesome injury may be thinking it’s time to hang up the cleats. Traditionally the NFL expects to lose about four/five QBs a year to retirement but it appears that the number may be getting a bit backlogged.
Going into the 2022-23 AFC playoffs Patrick Mahomes is the elder statesman at 27, and his backup Chad Henne is going to be 38 going into 2023. While the backup QB position is the best job in the NFL it does appear at some point fiscally it may be more advantageous to move to a Shane Buchele-type QB to see if they are worth sticking. With the Chiefs “ride or dying” with Mahomes at some point Henne will have to hang up the cleats as he’s more of a glorified assistant than a spot starter despite a heroic performance in the 2020 playoffs for the Chiefs. With Henne only signing a 1-year deal for 2022, and a pending free agent is it possible Henne may be on the way to clearing a path for new blood in the NFL and leaving with the 38 million dollars he’s made over 15 seasons?
As each season passes, it appears more and more QBs are starting. This year saw 68, 2021 saw 62, 2020 saw 58, 2019 saw 57, and 2018 54. Between injuries, coaches being held on shorter “leashes” and the constant need to find the “guy”. The NFL is constantly seeking and evaluating talent at the most important position. But, this bodes the question of when are we ready to just screw let's throw our QB3 out there rather than face the wrath of seeing Mike Glennon (looking at you 2021 Giants). While it’s not that fans thought Jake Fromm could supplant Daniel Jones it’s the fact Mike Glennon prior to his tenure had three opportunities to start and failed to cement his place in the NFL as a bonafide QB1 or even a high-end QB2.
With the emergence of the USFL and the XFL outside of Paxton Lynch, Ben DiNucci, and AJ McCarron none of the allotted or signed QBs have started an NFL, showing the vast opportunity that is on the horizon for many young players. As the NFL continues to start more and more quarterbacks each year, is it unrealistic to think that the alt-leagues could truly begin the process of a true “feeder system”?
Since the AAF in 2019, Garrett Gilbert, John Wolford, PJ Walker, Taylor Heinicke, and Josh Johnson have all started games at QB for NFL teams with Johnson being the only QB to start a game prior to his alt-league career (dating back to the UFL in 2012). With Quarterbacks like Case Cookus, Jordan Ta’amu, Kyle Sloter, and even Steven Montez garnering constant NFL interest it’s not outlandish to think many of today’s alt-leaguers could be next year's emergency QBs.
With the “old regime” of QB1s and QB2s on the horizon it’s not out of the realm to think many of our favorite alt-leaguers are being thrust into competitive roles at the NFL. Because of this, the importance of alt-league football especially at the quarterback position can not be stressed enough at this time. With only Five of the 44 (AJ McCarron and Paxton Lynch not included) USFL and XFL QBs having thrown more than 250 alt-league passes, right now it’s crucial that the leagues continue to manufacture a product in an effort to keep the next group of emergency QBs at least somewhat prepped.
What are the odds of an Alt-League QB will be called up?
The AAF saw Luis Perez, Brandon Silvers, Matt Simms, John Wolford, Josh Woodrum, Logan Woodside, and Garrett Gilbert all earn NFL contracts with Gilbert, Woodside, and Wolford all serving as primary backups since then, while Woodrum and Simms were on the IR for 2019. The XFL saw Josh Johnson, Taylor Heinicke, Jordan Ta’amu, PJ Walker, and Taylor Cornelius (CFL), all earn pro opportunities, while the USFL saw Vad Lee(CFL), Case Cookus, Kyle Sloter, KJ Costello, and Luis Perez earn contracts with pro teams in 2022. Moving forward it’s not unreasonable to think that at least 4 XFL QBs and maybe 2 USFL QBs get the “call” to earn an opportunity for 2023 with NFL teams.
2019 seems to be the most successful transition among alt-league QBs. While the 2020 XFL class sports Heinicke, Johnson, and Walker, the AAF alums have also seen some playing time with John Wolford starting 4 games including a playoff game in 2020.
With the “expected” retirements of approximately Ten QBs coming in over the next seasons, it’s not unlikely that “proven” alt-league QBs may have a chance to actually thrust themselves into a position to succeed and extend their careers but the question bodes who and how?
The highlighted QBs in the XFL to make the jump to the NFL would have to be Kyle Sloter, Jordan Ta’mu, Reid Sinnett, Cole McDonald, Ryan Willis, and Bryan Scott. “Known” QBs like AJ McCarron, Brandon Silvers, and Luis Perez are more than likely to have NFL interest but the NFL knows these players in and out, and are likely viewed as mini-camp bodies or late-season additions regardless of how they play.
For QBs like the Sloter, Sinnett, and Ta’amu true fringe guys who have tasted the NFL circle the task is simply to improve on past experiences, stay healthy and put together ten healthy games of tape. Scott, McDonald, and Willis have had NFL interest in the past with Willis even being active for the Bears last season however, the goal is for them to maximize their playing time in an effort to garner a “second look”.
QBs that could retire in 1-2 seasons
For the USFL the main hopefuls lie with J’Mar Smith, Alex McGough, Paxton Lynch, Kenji Bahar, and even Aqeel Glass. With the exception of Glass all of the mentioned QBs have the experience from year one and must build on this to once again put together sustained healthy play in hopes of earning an NFL invitation to training camp. With the USFL sporting several “unknowns” not just at QB but at multiple positions, the USFL is in prime position to be utilized as a beacon of hope for 2023 UDFAs in an effort to prep their bodies and themselves for opportunities if NFL teams have last second injuries or retirements at not just QB but any position.
For years fans of the NFL have seen QBs like Alex Smith, Carson Palmer, Eli Manning, Drew Brees, Ben Roethlisberger, Philip Rivers, and Peyton Manning, be available for 15-plus seasons for their teams. With a new influx of talent cemented behind several stalwart QB1s and invested QB2s, the NFL only seems to benefit from utilizing players who have been playing competitive football at a higher level than what we see during the fourth quarter of a preseason game. As the slow matriculation of the “staples” of the game moves on, it’s becoming a bit clearer now that there is a constant need to reevaluate talent. With game-ready players participating in “live” football games from February to July, it’s extremely reasonable that many long NFL careers can continue to be carved out in the NFL, that started with humble alt-League beginnings.
Each XFL Team's Most Notable Supplemental Draft Pick
After the recent XFL Supplemental draft, the XFL saw 90 players join their 8 teams as the New Year came. While we saw some retreads from XFL 2.0, there were also 42 USFL alumni who joined the three-time league. As we always do at The Markcast®, it’s time to highlight 8 players from each time who caught our eye during the XFL supplemental draft.
By Pat Rifino
After the recent XFL Supplemental draft, the XFL saw 90 players join their 8 teams as the New Year came. While we saw some retreads from XFL 2.0, there were also 42 USFL alumni who joined the three-time league. As we always do at The Markcast®, it’s time to highlight 8 players from each time who caught our eye during the XFL supplemental draft.
1 - Orlando Guardians, Wide Receiver Eli Rogers
A former NFL receiver who's probably statistically in the Top-15 of XFL retreads, Eli Rogers opted out of playing for his former OC Todd Haley in the USFL after being drafted. Rogers is a veteran of the 2020 DC Defenders and has an opportunity to show he’s still capable in a professional football setting.
2 - Seattle Sea Dragons, Wide Receiver Josh Gordon
Probably the easiest pick of the litter, Gordon was an All-Pro in the NFL before suspensions caught up with him. A super bowl champion Gordon humbled himself by joining the FCF in 2021, which then earned him contracts with the Seahawks and Titans before getting released earlier in the 2022 NFL Season. Gordon is set up to succeed by joining Ben DiNucci in June Jones' explosive offense for the 2023 XFL season.
3 - DC Defenders, Defensive Lineman Davin Bellamy
After spending 2021 and 2022 out of football Bellamy returned to football by putting together an All-USFL season. The Former New Orleans Breaker started the season earning Week One player of the week accolades and remained a constant in the Breakers’ pass rush.
4 - St. Louis Battlehawks, Offensive Guard Vadal Alexander
Alexander has a great story. The former 7th-round NFL pick was a starter for the Raiders in 2016 and 2017, however, found himself out of football for almost five seasons. Alexander rebounded back with the USFL’s Pittsburgh Maulers and started 10 games for Kirby Wilson’s squad in 2022. Alexander is easily a day 1 starter for the Battlehawks who also picked up another USFL standout Juwann Bushell-Beatty.
5 - Houston Roughnecks, Cornerback Will Likely
Likely was the All-USFL Cornerback and considered the second-best corner next to Channing Stribling. Likely may be a bit older, however, still has plenty of explosives left in the tank. Likely spent two seasons in the CFL before joining the USFL in 2022.
6 - Arlington Renegades, Linebacker Donald Payne
Payne was an All-USFL Linebacker for the Houston Gamblers. The leading tackler from the USFL, flourished in his first experience in an alt-league and should be expected to continue his ring of success in 2023 for the Renegades.
7 - Vegas Vipers, Linebacker Emmanuel Beal
The Vipers had a bit of quiet showing during the supplemental draft. The most notable player to me was the former Tampa Bay Bandits Emmanuel Beal. Beal is an XFL 2.0 retread who spent 2020 as a reserve linebacker with the Vipers. Beal returns to the XFL with another year of experience under his belt playing for Coach Rod Woodson who knows a bit about playing with explosive linebackers.
8 - San Antonio Brahmas, Center Jordan McCray
I could have gone with Reggie Corbin here, but McCray gets the nod due to his experience as an Alt-League fixture. A bit of an elder statesman, McCray bounced around the NFL in 2014 and 2015 before playing for three arena league teams from 2016-2018 before a failed stint with the Bears in 2019. McCray joined the AAF’s “Champion Orlando Apollos, and the XFL’s 2.0, before spending 2022 in the USFL with Champion Birmingham Stallions. McCray is one of the league’s most experienced players and is considered a top center in the Alt-League.
Top 7 Careers of QBs Post their Alt-Football League Stints
With the XFL draft having concluded, it’s often times we see players get drafted and wonder what happens next. With PJ Walker and Taylor Heinicke dominating the headlines left and right it’s clear that not many Quarterbacks often have the Cinderella ending that takes place for a small minority of quarterbacks. While many QBs will often extend their careers a season or two due to the alt-leagues, many often don’t have the privilege of actually maintaining a career in a major professional league after their time in the alternative spotlight ends.
By Pat Rifino
With the XFL draft having concluded, it’s often times we see players get drafted and wonder what happens next. With PJ Walker and Taylor Heinicke dominating the headlines left and right it’s clear that not many Quarterbacks often have the Cinderella ending that takes place for a small minority of quarterbacks. While many QBs will often extend their careers a season or two due to the alt-leagues, many often don’t have the privilege of actually maintaining a career in a major professional league after their time in the alternative spotlight ends. The seven players below, are quarterbacks who’ve managed to continue their careers for a couple more seasons and earn some nice paychecks.
7 - Taylor Cornelius, CFL Edmonton Elks
Ole Corndog was a backup QB to Aaron Murray during XFL 2.0. After spending 2020 with the Tampa Bay Vipers Cornelius was able to catch the eye of the CFL to back up Trevor Harris in 2021. Cornelius would end up starting 8 games in 2021 and 12 games in 2022, during his 20-game audition Cornelius has put up respectable numbers throwing over 4,500 yards, and 20 touchdowns while adding 8 more on the ground. Cornelius’ has shown the Elks enough that he was offered a two-year extension, for 2023-24, with the potential to earn about 600k total. Not bad for an undrafted free agent out of Oklahoma State.
6 - Tommy Maddox, NFL Pittsburgh Steelers
An OG on our list, Maddox was a first round pick in 1992 to the Denver Broncos, after six underwhelming seasons in the NFL, a stint in the Arena League, Maddux used his time in the XFL 1.0 to put together and MVP and Championship campaign, which transitioned to a contract with the Steelers as a backup in 2001. Maddox would play five more years in the NFL, throwing 42 Touchdowns for the Steelers and earning a comeback player of the year award in 2002. In 2003 he was a part of the Steelers team that won a super bowl in 2003. Overall, Maddox’s post XFL career was definitely a success story, and one many look back on fondly.
5 - McLeod Bethel-Thompson, CFL Toronto Argonauts
MBT started his career in the alt-leagues by having a cup of tea in the United Football League spending 2011 with the Sacramento Mountain Lions. MBT was able to earn NFL contracts for six years from 2012-2016 earning 792,322 dollars throughout his career. MBT would then join the CFL becoming a Grey Cup Champion, and being named to multiple All-Star teams.
4 - Garrett Gilbert, NFL New England Patriots
Garrett Gilbert actually had a Super Bowl ring and three pass attempts before coming to the AAF, what he didn’t have was NFL opportunities. Gilbert joined the Apollos and put together an MVP campaign for the defunct franchise however, this time his stay in the unemployment line would be short lived. After leaving the AAF, Gilbert has spent time with Cleveland, Washington, Oakland, Dallas, and New England, earning approx. 2 million dollars while appearing in seven games (two starts).
3 - PJ Walker, NFL Carolina Panthers
Walker was a favorite of Oliver Luck when he began constructing the XFL 2.0. Walkers XFL career is well noted as he was viewed as the MVP in the COVID shortened season. Since joining the Panthers Walker has put together a solid resume especially in 2022. Over the past three seasons he’s earned about 2.5 million dollars while solidifying his chances of extending his career as a solid number two option in the NFL.
2 - Josh Johnson, NFL Denver Broncos
Johnson has actually two stints in Alt-Leagues that have propelled him to success and longevity in the NFL. In 2012 after spending four seasons with the Tampa Bay Bucs, Johnson joined MBT’s Sacramento Mountain Lions and was able to put together enough film that kept him employed in the NFL from 2012-2018 earning about 5.8 million dollars. Johnson’s career hit another hiccup when in 2019 he was cut by the Lions and would find himself with the LA Wildcats of the XFL. After impressing in the XFL Johnson would extend his career for another three seasons in parts with the 49ers, Jets, Ravens, and now Broncos, earning another 1.2 million dollars, playing in four games over three days and throwing five touchdowns over that time.
1 - Taylor Heinicke, NFL Washington Commanders
The Heinicke experience of the XFL stems more from his connection to Coach Ron Rivera rather than his play or lack thereof with the Battlehawks. After the shutdown of XFL 2.0, Heinicke was getting ready to transition from football completely until Coach Rivera called in winter of 2020, Heinicke late season heroics earned him a contract worth 5.5 million dollars and since the XFL he holds a 10-9 record for the Washington franchise throwing 26 Touchdowns over the last three seasons. While Heinicke wasn’t the more than hype man for the Battlehawks the XFL does hold a special play in our heart seeing shotgun two seltzer after a Battlehawks victory in 2020.
Can Fan Controlled Football Players Transition to the XFL?
While KaVontae Turpin and Travis Toivonen have created some legitimacy for the league, seeing two players garner NFL opportunities, the question is always what’s next. While Andrew Jamiel has looked like the next FCF to make the jump, so far we’ve only seen him participate in a lone NFL workout with the Patriots. That was until the XFL draft took place from November 15th-November 17th, with the FCF seeing 14 of their former players get drafted to the XFL. This begs the question, “Can Fan Controlled Football Players Transition to the XFL?”
by Pat Rifino
It’s no secret the FCF or Fan Controlled Football is a bit weird, however, the league is an exciting entity no matter how you feel about it’s non-traditional ways. From players smoking blunts mid-game, to former NFL starters making cameos throughout the season, the FCF has done a great job in producing a quality entertaining product however, the question bodes is the football quality?
While KaVontae Turpin and Travis Toivonen have created some legitimacy for the league, seeing two players garner NFL opportunities, the question is always what’s next. While Andrew Jamiel has looked like the next FCF to make the jump, so far we’ve only seen him participate in a lone NFL workout with the Patriots. That was until the XFL draft took place from November 15th-November 17th, with the FCF seeing 14 of their former players get drafted to the XFL. This begs the question, “Can Fan Controlled Football Players Transition to the XFL?”
Quarterbacks
Mitch Kidd, Orlando Guardians
Kidd is a small school QB, who spent a couple of seasons in the arena leagues before joining the FCF. Kidd took the league by storm earning MVP and Offensive Player of the Year awards before getting picked up by the Orlando Guardians and sharing a QB room with former FCF alumnus Deondre Francois.
Deondre Francois, Orlando Guardians
The former ACC Rookie of the Year award back in 2016 with Florida State. Francois was the heir-apparent before an off-the-field incident saw him removed from FSU. He finished his career at Hampton College and has had stints in the FCF and TSL. Francois has thrown 19 TDs to 3 Ints in the FCF and will compete with Quinten Dormady for the starting job, in Orlando.
Running Backs
Brycen Alleyne, Houston Roughnecks
Alleyne totaled 349 rushing yards and 8 Touchdowns in 2022. The former Delaware State product looks to be a change of passback for the Roughnecks in the 2023 XFL season.
Wide Receivers
Martavis Bryant, Vegas Vipers
The comeback tour continues with Bryant now making his way to the XFL. The most notable player on this list, Bryant started his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers before heading to the Raiders and then being suspended indefinitely from the NFL. After stints with the Argos and Elks in the CFL, Bryant found his way to the FCF and now is in a prime position to garner an NFL opportunity with the Vipers come spring 2023.
Cedric Byrd, Houston Roughnecks
Byrd links up with his former Rainbow Warrior QB Cole McDonald after spending a season in the FCF. Byrd is a shifty receiver who totaled 10 receptions for 162 yards and two touchdowns in the FCF in 2022.
Andrew Jamiel, Orlando Guardians
Jamiel out of Stonehill has been in the FCF and the TSL. A top-5 receiver in the league, Jamiel is a quality slot receiver, who has finally been given an outdoor opportunity. Over two years Jamiel has totaled 564 yards during his FCF career.
Pat Smith, Orlando Guardians
Smith had 2,545 yards and 31 touchdowns in college and will look to make the most of his opportunity at the professional level now with the XFL. In 2022, Smith recorded 17 receptions for 260 yards and four touchdowns in the FCF.
Tommy Auger, Orlando Guardians
Though drafted as a Long Snapper, Auger looks to spend some time as a Tight End. After spending time in Austria and now the FCF, Auger finally gets a chance to solidify himself after earning All-FCF honors in 2022.
Offensive Linemen
Kamalie Mathews, Orlando Guardians
Another versatile lineman, Kamali Matthews may be a jack of all trades for the Guardians. The 6’2 lineman is extremely athletic, and will probably spend time at guard despite playing tackle in college.
Sunday Deng, Orlando Guardians
Deng is a small school prospect coming out of Northwestern Oklahoma State. Deng’s first season in the FCF was his first pro-season.
Jonathan Irazarry, San Antonio Brahmas
Irazarry is a small school prospect, who was an FCF stalwart. The versatile offensive lineman looks to be a solid reserve for the Brahmas in 2023.
Defensive Backs
Mike Lee, Orlando Guardians
Lee recorded 246 tackles at Kansas while playing as a safety. He spent some time with the NFL in camp and recorded five interceptions with the FCF in 2022..
Roman Tatum, Orlando Guardians
Tatum returns to the XFL after playing with the Wildcats in 2020. Tatum had a stint in the Spring League prior to the FCF and joins the Guardians’ plethora of FCF players now in the XFL.
CJ Anthony, Houston Roughnecks
Anthony is a small school prospect from Garden City CC. The Defensive Back drew interest while attending a workout with the Vipers, after his time in the FCF.
With 14 players transitioning to the XFL, the FCF may be shaking in their boots a bit. With a plethora of talent out there, it shouldn’t be hard to replace the next batch of FCF players who make their way to more traditional outdoor leagues.
7 Players the XFL Should Target in Its Supplemental Draft
The first phases of the XFL Draft have come and gone seeing many former XFL stars rejoin the league, along with many new faces joining the league for another shot at pro football. While some names like Kyle Sloter and Martavis Bryant shocked us, others like Luis Perez and Andrew Jamiel seemed to be a bit expected by multiple sources. With a supplemental draft scheduled for January 2023, below are seven players we’d like to see join the league for its 3rd reiteration.
by Pat Rifino
The first phases of the XFL Draft have come and gone seeing many former XFL stars rejoin the league, along with many new faces joining the league for another shot at pro football. While some names like Kyle Sloter and Martavis Bryant shocked us, others like Luis Perez and Andrew Jamiel seemed to be a bit expected by multiple sources. With a supplemental draft scheduled for January 2023, below are seven players we’d like to see join the league for its 3rd reiteration.
Note: QBs like Jordan Ta’amu and Bryan Scott will not be included while both are rumored to be joining the league come January, QBs are “selected/allotted” and not drafted. That being said, we do look forward to seeing them join the XFL in 2023.
7. Reece Horn, Wide Receiver
It seems like every month we spotlight Reece Horn, whether it highlighting his career, or the statistical accomplishments over his career. The veteran of the NFL, CFL, XFL 2.0, TSL, and EFL is an alt-league champion (2021 Spring League and European League 2022), is in the draft pool, and hopefully will join the XFL for 2nd team come January. Fun fact, Horn is the post-2000 alt-league receiving yards leader with 962, he’d be the first receiver to join the 1,000 yards club if he joins the XFL this spring.
6. Qwan’tez Stiggers, Defensive Back
Stiggers is the youngest prospect in the XFL draft pool. Stiggers was a star in the FCF leading the league in interceptions including grabbing three in one game. Stiggers is a raw athletic prospect that should be the next member of the FCF to transition to the traditional XFL.
5. Jeremy Hill, Running Back
The XFL did not shy away from drafting former NFL talent as the league picked up Martavis Bryant, Brian Hill, and Ja’Marcus Bradley all players with NFL experience. Hill has 55 games under his belt totaling 2898 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns. Hill’s been out of the NFL since 2018 however his “name recognition” is a solid draw for a young XFL running back room.
4. Damon Sheehy-Guiseppi, Wide Receiver
If we are talking about name recognition Damon Sheehy-Guiseppi is a name that draws a lot of notice. The Phoenix College return man has had multiple stints in pro leagues since lying his way into an NFL tryout in 2019. After getting cut by the Browns Sheehy spent time with the New York Guardians, two iterations of the Spring League (2020 Alphas, 2021 Linemen), the FCF, the Ottawa Redblacks, and most recently spent time with the MLFB’s Arkansas Attack which before the league folded.
3. D’Veon Smith, Running Back
The victim of Pizza Gate deserves another shot at pro football especially after being a Top-6 rusher in the AAF and the leading rusher in the XFL’s 2020 season. Smith has performed admirably in every stop he’s made in pro football and the former Michigan man hopefully will be a part of an XFL team come January.
2. Jhurell Pressley, Running Back
Originally thought to be done with Football as Pressley began coaching most recently he’s received an XFL invite and is currently in Japan with the X-League. Pressley has been with five NFL teams and was the AAF’s leading rusher. In addition to being the AAF’s leading rusher, Pressley put together a solid season for the DC Defenders where he would finish the year as a Top-8 rusher.
1. Josh Gordon, Wide Receiver
Most recently cut by the Titans, Gordon has expressed interest in joining the XFL. Gordon, who is no stranger to the Alt-Leagues, was a part of the FCF in 2021 with the Zappers. Gordon is a Super Bowl Champion and All-Pro receiver, though his best days may be behind him Gordon is definitely a draw to boost crowd interest for the XFL in 2023.
Alt-Football’s Top 10 Receivers
After going through the archives here at The Markcast® we were able to compile a list of all the Top 10 receivers over the XFL (1.0 and 2.0), USFL, TSL, AAF, and UFL.
by Pat Rifino
Another Top 10 list! After going through the archives here at The Markcast® we were able to compile a list of all the Top 10 receivers over the XFL (1.0 and 2.0), USFL, TSL, AAF, and UFL. So far we’ve been able to compile years upon years of stats to break down this list. While some may argue CFL, and NFL-Europe should be included, there has not been a central consolidated database to organize all these leagues together.
Below is the list of the TOP-10 career receiving yards for the above-mentioned leagues:
Tied-10. Alonzo Moore: Currently Playing for the New Jersey Generals (USFL) 693 Yards
Past Teams: Seattle Dragons (XFL 2.0), San Antonio Commanders (AAF)
Moore has been in pro football circles since 2017 after bouncing around with the Chiefs early in his career. After stints with the Commanders and Dragons, Moore came into his own in the USFL (2022) being a part of the league's most dynamic offense. His 365 receiving yards for the Generals was good for 12th in the league, despite being at times the 3rd or 4th option in the Generals’ offense. Moore looks to return in 2023 for the Generals as the top option with Darrius Shepherd and KaVontae Turpin no longer with the league.
Tied-10. Nelson Spruce: Currently not signed with a team 693 Yards
Past Teams: LA Wildcats (XFL 2.0), San Diego Fleet (AAF)
Spruce was an all-conference receiver at Colorado, before signing with the AAF after failed attempts with the Rams, Chargers, Bears, and Chiefs. Spruce took the AAF by storm totaling 426 yards, and in three games with the Wildcats totaled 267 yards. Despite only playing in 11 Alt-League games, Spruce managed to crack our top 10 in receiving yards. After getting cut with the Alouettes of the CFL Spruce has not managed to show back up in the Alt-Football space.
8. Jermaine Copeland: Retired 755 Yards
Past Teams: Los Angeles Xtreme (XFL 1.0)
Copeland who later became a CFL all-star started his career with the Barcelona Dragons, and Los Angeles Xtreme of the XFL 1.0. Copeland was a top receiver for the champion Xtreme, partnering with Tommy Maddox to combine for a dynamic combo in 2001. After his lone season in the XFL, Copeland earned three CFL all-star selections, retired in 2011, and is currently a receivers coach for the Saskatchewan Roughriders since 2015.
7. Taye Biddle: Retired 763 Yards
Past Teams: Florida Tuskers (UFL), Sacramento Mountain Lions (UFL)
Biddle was an undrafted free agent out of Ole Miss, before joining the UFL. Biddle would bounce between Panthers, Bucs, Lions, and Giants before finally joining the UFL. Biddle became a top receiver in the UFL and managed to earn another NFL opportunity in 2010 with the Vikings in 2010. Upon final cuts, Biddle found himself back in the UFL with the Sacramento Mountain Lions and enjoyed another successful season. Biddle would then have stints in the CFL, and AFL before ending his football career in 2012.
6. D’Andrae Thurman: Retired 769 Yards
Past Teams: Las Vegas Locomotives (UFL 2009-2012)
Thurman is the UFL’s all-time leading receiver who had a bit of background prior to his UFL career. The Southern Oregon product recorded 9 receptions, 104 receiving yards, 248 return yards in the NFL, and 40 receptions for 426 yards in the CFL. Thurman would thrive as a member in Vegas winning two championships. Upon the folding of the UFL, Thurman continued to thrive in the Arena Leagues, playing seven more seasons, recording 288 receptions, 3,483 Yards, and 69 Touchdowns.
5. Rashad Ross: Currently with the San Diego Fleet (IFL) 776 Yards
Past Teams: Arizona Hotshots (AAF), LA Wildcats/DC Defenders (XFL 2.0)
Ross was THE GUY in the AAF for John Wolford and the Hotshots. The Arizona State product was bouncing around nine NFL teams, with limited playtime before making his statement in the Alt-Leagues. Ross led the AAF in touchdowns (7), before the league folded. Ross would have another shot with the Panthers in 2019, before transitioning to the XFL for their 2020 season. Ross would add another 193 yards during his XFL stint before, having an attempt in CFL getting cut in 2021 by the Alouettes. Currently, Ross is playing arena ball in the IFL, with a draft invite for the XFL 3.0 for 2023.
4. KaVontae Turpin: Currently with the Dallas Cowboys (NFL) 780 Yards
Past Teams: TSL Sea Lions, New Jersey Generals (USFL)
Turpin has been around the block a couple of times. The USFL MVP had some character issues coming out of TCU which made him a UDFA in 2019. The current Cowboy, spent time with the Frisco Fighters (IFL), Glacier Boyz (FCF), jumped to The Spring League, and even had a stint in Poland playing for the Wrolcow Panthers. It wasn’t until his shot with the Generals in the USFL that people took notice of his skill set. Totaling almost 1,000 All-purpose yards (580 receiving) Turpin was the leading receiver for the USFL. After the season he was awarded a three-year contract, with the Cowboys where right now he is the main returner and is consistently seeing offensive snaps.
3. Charles Jordan: Retired 823 Yards
Past Teams: Memphis Maniax (XFL 1.0)
Jordan had a scattered path before pro football. After leaving Long Beach City College, Jordan would be associated with gangs, before attending an open try-out in 1993. Jordan played in seven seasons before joining the XFL’s Memphis Maniax in 2001. His 823 yards put him in the TOP-5. After the XFL, Jordan would not continue his pro career.
2. Stepfret Williams: Retired 882 Yards
Past Teams: Birmingham Thunderbolts (XFL 1.0)
Williams was a 3rd round pick in 1996 prior to the XFL. During his NFL career, he appeared in 26 games recording 37 receptions 421 Yards, and 2 touchdowns. Upon getting cut by the Chargers in 2000, Williams joined the XFL (1.0) where he was the leading receiver in receptions and yards. Upon the completion of the XFL season, Williams retired.
1.Reece Horn: Currently with the Frankfurt Galaxy (ELF) 982 Yards
Past Teams: Memphis Express (AAF), Tampa Bay Vipers (XFL 2.0), TSL Linemen
Horn is an Alt-League legend playing in eight football leagues for 10 teams in his career. Horn started in the NFL as a UDFA, before going to Italy and Austria in their countries’ football leagues. A stint in the AAF (429 Yards) with the Express allowed to showcase his skills for the NFL as he joined the Dolphins in 2019. Upon getting cut from the NFL, Horn joined the XFL (2.0) with the Tampa Bay Vipers (240 yards), and upon the shutdown of the XFL, Horn joined the Spring League, where he totaled another 313 yards for the champion Linemen. Since 2021, Horn has been with the Bengals, Stampeders (CFL 2022), and now is with the Galaxy of the ELF who most recently won a championship.
Ranking the “Reported” Allotted XFL 2023 QBs
On September 29th the XFL “Insider” graced us with the eight quarterbacks who have already been allotted a team moving forward to the 2023 season. Below is my ranked list of the first 8 tentatively assigned QBs for the 2023 XFL season.
by Pat Rifino
On September 29th, XFL News Hub’s Mike Mitchell graced us with another bit of information. The XFL Insider graced us with the eight quarterbacks who have already been allotted a team moving forward to the 2023 season. With the XFL QB allotment draft set for the 15th of November and the draft on the 16th and 17th, it’ll only be a couple more weeks till all our favorite teams become “official”. Below is my ranked list of the first 8 assigned QBs for the 2023 XFL season.
8. Jalan McClendon Baylor/NC State: Las Vegas Vipers
McClendon is one of the least experienced QB’s to join the XFL 3.0. He only started three games in college and threw 136 passes in 29 appearances. In college, he backed up Jacoby Brissett, Ryan Finley at NC State, and Charlie Brewer at Baylor before joining the Ravens, and Redskins in 2019. McClendon was a part of the LA Wildcats in 2020 throwing four passes and rushing twice. McClendon does boast athletic ability and tenacity to stay relevant as the XFL 3.0 is bringing him back for 2023. Overall, I do not see McClendon being QB1 for the Vipers as he’s had opportunities in NFL and XFL to play but hasn’t wowed enough to be consistently looked at as a starter for any league.
7. Jawon Pass Louisville/ Prairie View A&M: San Antonio Brahmas
I like Pass, but what keeps me at 7 for me is his senior season at Prairie View for me. His 16:12 TD-Int ratio didn’t wow me after throwing 14:13 at Louisville. He threw 382 passes at Louisville, and 330 at Prairie View, so while he does have a decent sample size of work in college, It definitely leaves me wanting more. I do project Pass to be the QB1 at least for week one moving forward, however, if he isn’t able to put his receivers in a position to succeed, I do not see Head Coach Hines Ward having a long leash for Pass.
6. Drew Plitt Ball State: Arlington Renegades
A true rookie in 2022, Plitt did exactly what was asked in his limited appearances for the Bengals in the 2022 pre-season. Plitt, has plenty of collegiate experience with 38 starts, and boasts good arm strength that allows him to make pro-level throws. There are a lot of unknowns about Plitt, but his raw ability with the combination of being led by head coach Bob Stoops makes him an attractive candidate in the 2023 XFL.
5. Brandon Silvers Troy: Houston Roughnecks
I’m pumped to see Silvers back playing football but we also have a decent sample size with him. After 1503 attempts at Troy, and 307 attempts in the AAF, XFL, and TSL Silvers is a bonafide pro in the Alt-League Football space. I was a bit surprised that he was passed over in the USFL as I think it would have solidified his place as a pro QB. While I am a big supporter of Silvers I do believe that he is a high-end backup, as he was never a game-changer in the AAF and XFL. I’m sure Silvers will start games for the Roughnecks, but in AJ Smith’s offense, he’ll have every opportunity to prove me wrong.
4. D’Eriq King Houston/Miami: DC Defenders
King will have a chance to prove to the doubters that he is a legitimate QB at the pro level. While I was upset that he wasn’t able to showcase his skill set for the Patriots in 2022, it appears he’ll have that chance with the Defenders. King is definitely the most athletic, and versatile of the group, throwing 1,048 passes, rushing 423 times, and recording 61 receptions. His diverse skill set automatically makes him one of the more intriguing QBs on our list and prompts him to the Top-5 of XFL signal callers.
3. Steven Montez Colorado: Seattle Sea Dragons
Montez is in a pretty decent situation to succeed in XFL 3.0. After a pretty good career at Colorado, Montez spent two years in the NFL, and at one point was considered a candidate for the Washington Football Team to be utilized in a Taysom Hill-type role but that never materialized. Montez had some decent showings in the preseason in 2021 and comes to the XFL with 39 starts in college. The XFL is the perfect league for Montez as he’ll be able to showcase his skill set in February.
2. Deondre Francois Florida State/Hampton: Orlando Guardians
The XFL 3.0 is boom or bust for Francois. He’s either going to tear this league up or be benched after two weeks. Francois spent two seasons in the FCF posting a 19:3 TD-INT Ratio, and 10 rushing touchdowns and also spent a season playing in The Spring League, with the Blues. Francois would underwhelm in The Spring League, splitting time with Conor Kaegi, and XFL 2.0 Alumni Nick Fitzgerald completing 56.8% of his passes along with one touchdown on 44 attempts. Francois definitely has a story and the Pro experience to make a name for himself. Replacing Jameis Winston at FSU was no task and as a Freshman, he did a pretty decent job. Hopefully, Guardians OC Robert Ford is able to put him in a position to be a start in this league.
1. Ryan Willis Kansas/VA Tech: St. Louis Battlehawks
Am I showing a bit of bias with Willis, yeah I am, but Willis tore up The Spring League in 2021, which led him to earn an NFL contract with the Bears. The Linemen were above and beyond any Spring League team in 2021, and Willis was the leading piece for Hal Mumme’s team. Willis was the MVP of the Spring League and outside of Silvers is the most experienced Spring league QB. As the MVP he’s the top choice, to succeed in the XFL 3.0 and the number one guy to build the league around right now.
“Certainly there's ways where you can be a little bit more, you know, innovative.” - Former XFL 2020 Team President on XFL 2023’s Kickoff Timeline and Marketing Approach
On the October 14th episode of The Markcast®, former XFL 2020 team president Brian Michael Cooper was kind enough to sit down for a lengthy interview to compare and contrast the XFL 2020's kickoff timeline and marketing efforts to those coming from the new XFL 3.0 regime.
By Reid Johnson
On the October 14th episode of The Markcast®, former XFL 2020 team president Brian Michael Cooper was kind enough to sit down for a lengthy interview to compare and contrast the XFL 2020's kickoff timeline and marketing efforts to those coming from the new XFL 3.0 regime.
Brian Michael Cooper was the team president for the XFL's Houston Roughnecks franchise, and he as well as the other team owners utilized a mix of guerilla marketing efforts as well as league-directed national campaigns to help build up local fan interest in the 8 XFL 2020 cities before its kickoff in February of 2020.
“I think it's a combination of both. We had a fantastic marketing group at the league level as well. It's knowing the league and them knowing the market, right? I think that having people with boots on ground in the market and making sure you're getting out to those various events. It’s just those touch points that are just critical to making sure, you know, to make out to making sales. It all adds up down the road.”
While the USFL utilized a central hub for its 2021 “inaugural” season, the XFL has shifted its focus to a more “modified hub”, basing a majority of league operations in Arlington, Texas with a mix of local employees working remotely in its 8 2023 cities.
“I’m hoping that, you know, at some point the teams will obviously be in markets. I know that they're just a stair-step process on building out, so I get that. That's just logistics and it makes a lot of sense for them to, they need, you know, to get this started the way they're doing. I think it's some point old ultimately, and I think they're gonna get there, we’re ultimately they will have a greater presence in the market. I think that having, you know, being in the community is critical. I'm not saying anything that's not understood by anyone who's who's been in this space is that you've gotta be there. But certainly look there's ways where you can be a little bit more, you know, innovative on how you're, how you're managing that. But I ultimately expect him to be in the markets in the full-time basis. I mean, I would be surprised that they aren't, it may not happen a year one, but I assume in subsequent years that they will.”
When asked about current management’s timeline and approach combined with the monumental task of building a new professional football league from scratch, Brian Michael Cooper admitted it’s no easy feat.
“It just takes a very long time to do I think, in a perfect world, right? I think when people are mapping out new leagues, new teams, whatnot, you know, you really are looking at an 18 to 24-month timetable where you are in market, and then you're slowly building up the events and then you're adding more to that, you're staffing up. We staffed up from zero to almost 30 staffers in roughly 11 months, I mean, that's a, that's a breakneck pace and so even just a sheer administrative task of just building out your team is gonna take time. So I think that they're, they're doing it.”
Brian admits he understands the frustrations of XFL 2020 fans who have been patiently awaiting major news from XFL 3.0’s ownership over the past 26 months in which they’ve owned the alt-football league.
“I think that people wanna see the product up there, there's no doubt about that. I think that that's like in, you know, part of it's communication as well, right? Making sure that there's, you know, that there, ‘Hey this is what's happening, and here's the plan,’ that also helps the fan base as well, I think. But I think like there's passionate fans out there and that's good, in fact, the fans wanna see, you know, I think what concerns us all in the sports business would be if there's no discussion, right? There's discussion, and when the discussion stops, that's when you should get concerned.”
“I don't wanna make short shift of the idea that people haven't been patient on finding out things, but I think ultimately hopefully there's gonna be that connection between whatever prep work that's being done and meeting the meeting the need and fans and that expectation.”
Be sure to check out my full interview with former XFL 2020 Houston Roughnecks team president Brian Michael Cooper in episode 114 of The Markcast®!
5 USFL Players That Could Jump Over to the XFL
Out of the 51 players who latched on to NFL camp rosters, only 16 are still on Active Rosters and Practice Squads, with a couple more on injured reserve. Right now none of the remaining players have signed with their original USFL teams leaving a ton of former USFL Stars on the Market for XFL teams. Before are 5 players that may transition to the XFL rather than come back to the USFL.
By Pat Rifino
With NFL cuts many of our favorite USFL players transition to NFL Camp rosters in an attempt to meet their professional football goals. Out of the 51 players who latched on to NFL camp rosters, only 16 are still on Active Rosters and Practice Squads, with a couple more on injured reserve. Right now none of the remaining players have signed with their original USFL teams leaving a ton of former USFL Stars on the Market for XFL teams. Before are 5 players that may transition to the XFL rather than come back to the USFL.
1. Channing Stribling, Cornerback Philadelphia Stars
Stribling has been around pro football since 2017 coming undrafted out of Michigan. He bounced around NFL camps (5 teams), the AAF, the XFL 2.0, the CFL, and was an All-USFL Corner for the Philadelphia Stars. At 27 years old Stribling’s NFL chances may be limited however, he does seem to be able to provide high-quality play at this time in his career. After earning over 108K in the NFL, at this point Stribling may be looking to cement a solid financial base and it appears the XFL offers that over the USFL right now.
2. Sal Cannella, Tight End New Orleans Breakers
Cannella was easily the best Tight End in the USFL in addition to being a Top-5 receiver in the USFL. After missing out with the Packers and Dolphins over the past couple of seasons, it’s clear that Cannella is still on many NFL teams’ shortlists. With the XFL having an earlier start and ending after the NFL draft, coupled by the fact the Breakers are without his Head Coach of 2022, Cannella may want a new change of pace to have a greater chance at seizing another NFL contract.
3. Kyle Sloter, Quarterback New Orleans Breakers
Sloter continues to stay relevant in pro-football circles as the All-USFL Quarterback in 2022, and recently has come out of camp with the Jaguars (7th team). With career earnings of about 1.5 million since being undrafted in 2017, Sloter does have a unique opportunity to join the XFL as they do have the financial means to pay around 500k to certain QBs. With Sloter also older and NFL opportunities most likely becoming more scarce, Sloter would be a prime candidate to bring stability to the XFL.
4. Luis Perez, Quarterback New Jersey Generals
Perez is a staple of spring football and it is only a matter of time that he returns to the XFL. Despite his run as the Generals QB, Mike Riley may be content with moving forward with DeAndre Johnson, DeQuan Neal, and Kyle Lauletta under which grants Perez as possibly an afterthought in “New Jersey”. With the consistent play of Perez, the all-time post 2000 Alt-Football leader in Touchdowns and Passing Yards, will surely be a hot commodity for XFL teams coming into 2023.
5. KJ Costello, Quarterback Philadelphia Stars
In a numbers game, it seems Costello is the odd man out in the USFL. With the Stars, he’s third on the Depth Chart behind Bryan Scott, and Case Cookus (who is actively working out for NFL teams), and it appears the other Seven USFL teams have some continuity at the QB position moving forward. With Costello, it seems that his best chance of playing will come from a new league where there are no presumptive starters. The XFL grants him that luxury coming into 2023.
As the XFL preps for its draft in late 2022, I’m sure many more USFL “defectors” will transition to the XFL 3.0. While both leagues have their advantages I do have to give it to the XFL as far as what presents a better opportunity for players. In addition to a higher salary, the XFL season ends in April of 23 meaning players have an earlier jump to fill out roster spots and recover from weeks of wear and tear. Regardless, it is evident that many USFL will not be back with their original spring teams come 2023.
The Jump To the NFL, Why Spring League Superstars Don't Always Get Picked Up by NFL Teams
Whenever a spring football league comes out, at the conclusion of the season many fans often flock to Twitter to plead the case of their beloved new spring league hero or why their favorite NFL team should sign their favorite AAF, XFL, or USFL All-Pro. To fans, it is often mind-blowing how this could happen. The reason? It’s actually pretty simple, these players lack one thing that coaches desperately, look for versatility.
By Pat Rifino
Cam Phillips, Reggie Corbin, the list can go on and on. Whenever a spring football league comes out, at the conclusion of the season many fans often flock to Twitter to plead the case of their beloved new spring league hero or why their favorite NFL team should sign their favorite AAF, XFL, or USFL All-Pro. To fans, it is often mind-blowing how this could happen, how Cam Phillips could score 9 TDs in five games yet be an afterthought come training camp. The reason? It’s actually pretty simple, these players lack one thing that coaches desperately, look for versatility.
Now versatility? What do you mean my favorite player can line up in the slot, stretch the field, etc? Well, being a versatile football player means a bit more than where you line up oftentimes in these alt-leagues players may put up gaudy stats but does that mean anything? To an extent, yes but it takes a bit more than just a successful stat-line for an alt-league player to transition to the NFL.
The question has to be why is this alt-league player in the FCF, USFL, or XFL to begin with? There are plenty of answers, small-school, injuries, coaching changes, etc. But there usually is a reason, for KaVontae Turpin it was legal issues that led to IFL, FCF, ELF, and then the USFL for others it’s a guy like Damon Sheehy-Guiseppi who has a completely non-traditional path to any league much less someone with a non-complete college career. But despite the success, many alt-league stars have there is something that many are missing that NFL coaches long for.
Special Teams. We mention versatility, and while some may think it is a one-dimensional aspect just taking place on that player's specific place on the ball, it really is so much more than that. Coaches value the aspect of special teams over everything when it comes to filling in roster spots.
In reality, the majority of roster spots are already claimed on an NFL roster, whether that be because of skillset, coach familiarity, or contracts, the number of opportunities for the backend parts of the rosters is extremely limited. Thus maximizing the importance of special teams.
Coaches need players to cover kicks and punts, act as gunners, block punts, etc. It’s probably why a guy like Reggie Corbin hasn’t been signed and his backup Stevie Scott did or why his 3rd string option Cam Scarlett is a more valuable option. While Corbin is definitely a dynamic runner, and a top-tier running back in the USFL, NFL coaches don’t need that. They need a guy like Cam Scalertt, who can be a personal protector, block on third-down, and be on the kickoff or 2nd line of the kick return unit. Corbin didn’t and hasn’t done any of that really in the USFL.
It’s the same with Cam Phillips. Coming out of college, Phillips instantly saw the field, and was a part of the core group of receivers his freshman year catching 40 passes and immediately being a starter, and foregoing the “grunt work” coaches are less than impressed that their WR5 can’t contribute on special teams and for Phillips, it’s been his Achilles heel. Cam Phillips IS finding success north of the border in the CFL currently with the Toronto Argonauts, although his path hasn’t always been certain.
Not to sound like a broken record, but the path from the alt-league to the NFL is seemingly pretty linear. Contribute to special teams, add value at your position group, and fill in the back half of the roster in multiple different ways. For a guy like KaVontae Turpin and DeMarquis Gates they figured it out for others, for Cam Phillps and Reggie Corbin, it seems like they are still trying to figure it out.
“I was surprised the number was that high.” XFL Board’s Greg Parks Talks USFL Coach Defectors to XFL and XFL 2023 Coaching Staff Announcements
On the September 16th episode of The Markcast, Greg Parks contributor to XFL Board joined me to run down the week’s big news with the XFL officially announcing all 8 XFL team coaching staffs ahead of its 2023 kickoff.
by Reid Johnson
On the September 16th episode of The Markcast, Greg Parks contributor to XFL Board joined me to run down the week’s big news with the XFL officially announcing all 8 XFL team coaching staffs ahead of its 2023 kickoff.
Although many XFL and alt-football fans were anxiously awaiting the long-anticipated reveal of the 2023 XFL team nicknames and uniforms, Greg Parks feels like XFL diehards won’t have to wait much longer.
“We're getting closer. We're getting closer, we'll have the team names and logos and jerseys and all of that will be revealed. We got the draft being built, we’ve got the NFL Alumni Academy building their team basically that they're gonna be training which is gonna be of interest to XFL fans and the league itself. Then, you know, the draft in November, which is just two months away, and so the days of having those long waits, I think are coming to an end here very soon.”
Greg wrote a column that details the puzzle pieces that each of the 8 XFL head coaches had to put together when assembling either of their unique 2023 XFL coaching staffs.
“The light bulb sort of goes on. I saw some names that were familiar certainly for the coaching staffs and then you see some names that aren't familiar, but the more you dig into who these people are and the connections they have, it is really interesting. That's really what my column was about, looking at each staff and seeing what those connections were to each other, to the head coach, to the city that they're coaching in because there are a lot of those as well. It was really fascinating, kind of pull it all of those threads. Then you have some coaches that just don't seem to fit at all hat, you know, you have one or two coaches per team where it's like, “How did they come up with this guy?”
Greg believes by analyzing each of the XFL’s 2023 team coaching staffs, fans of alt-football can gather a good sense of how the team is going to look and function when they hit the field in February of next year.
“You look at Reggie Barlow staff in DC, heavily influenced by HBCU schools. Then you have, you know, the, the Jim Haslett staff, the offensive staff is almost all June Jones lieutenants. So you can kind of tell Haslett is sort of giving the offensive reigns to June Jones and, and rightly so.”
A couple of still missing key XFL hires (namely XFL Las Vegas’ offensive coordinator for one) should be filled in the coming months.
“There's still some blanks to be filled think on some of these staffs. We still have Rod Woodson whose offensive coordinator was not announced, although, you know, Mike Mitchell has had the scoop on that for a while now. We'll probably just wait until after the college season, for that to be announced. You've got teams that don't have special teams, coaches, which could simply mean that the special teams coaches may be hired later on. Or, this happens at the college level where there's a limit on the number of assistants they can have, certain aspects of special teams are split up amongst the rest of the coaches on staff.”
One of the biggest takeaways from the XFL’s coaching hires announcement this week, was the fact that 10 current USFL 2022 coaches/coordinators decided to jump ship, taking equal or lesser roles within the XFL.
“10 was you know, honestly, shocking to me, I was surprised the number was that high. I don't know what to chalk that up to. I don't know if the XFL is truly offering significantly more, I don't know, maybe I know a couple of 'em went to XFL Arlington, is the prestige of being on a Bob Stoop staff, maybe too hard to pass up? Maybe it's the time of year, it fits these coaches a lot better at this time in their lives, the XFL schedule in terms of when it's being played? So there are a lot of potential factors as to why, but it did take me by surprise that so many coaches are leaving.”
“Say what you will about the USFL, but they got through year one and they're headed toward year two and there's something to be said for that stability, especially if you're a coach where stability is not the norm. If you look at some of these coaching histories for some of these guys, it is extensive and it is broad and it is across the United States. So stability you would think would count for something and they're taking a shot on a league that although it's very different this time has failed twice and has not gotten through a first season, so that does make you wonder.”
The XFL and the USFL are competing to acquire the best talent both on and off the field, Greg feels given the coaching talent that was available, the XFL did an admirable job.
“Obviously the USFL has taken some of the coaches who otherwise would've been in the XFL, you mentioned the 10 that moved over to the XFL, but there are still some in the USFL that may have, if not for the USFL been on XFL coaching staffs. I think given what was out there and what was available to them, these were pretty well-built staffs.”
Be sure to check out Greg’s full article on xflboard.com and you can listen to our full chat on the YouTube channel.
Two Years Later, Who Remains From XFL 2.0?
From the ashes of the AAF, alt-football fans were graced with the XFL for the second time in many of our lifetimes. Beginning in February of 2020 for Five Weeks fans were graced with the play of many players who eventually transitioned to the NFL. After the COVID-Pandemic ended the XFL prematurely, 58 players would be signed onto NFL squads, going into the 2022 season 20 XFL alumni remain employed by NFL teams.
By Pat Rifino
From the ashes of the AAF, alt-football fans were graced with the XFL for the second time in many of our lifetimes. Beginning in February of 2020 for five weeks fans were graced with the play of many players who eventually transitioned to the NFL. After the COVID-Pandemic ended the XFL prematurely, 58 players would be signed onto NFL squads, going into the 2022 season 20 XFL alumni remain employed by NFL teams. Below is that list:
Taylor Heinicke Quarterback St. Louis Battlehawks
Washington Commanders
Prior to his transition to the XFL Heinicke had thrown 58 passes for the Panthers, and Texans, in addition to his stints on the practice squads of the Patriots, and Vikings. Heinicke’s time in the XFL would be less than memorable due to him not playing one snap, however, his familiarity with Ron Rivera would help him land a job as an emergency QB with the Washington Football Team in 2020. Due to an Alex Smith and Kyle Allen injury, in addition to Dwayne Haskins’ ineffectiveness, Heinicke would be thrust into a playoff start and almost managed to defeat Tom Brady in 2020. Heinicke would gain even more experience in 2021 throwing for 20 TDs and 3,419 yards while keeping Washington competitive throughout the whole season.
PJ Walker Quarterback Houston Roughnecks
Carolina Panthers
Walker burst onto the XFL with the help of June Jones and the Air Raid Offense. Going undefeated and throwing for 15 TDs and 1,338 yards, Walker would join his college coach Matt Rhule with the Carolina Panthers in 2020 even making two starts winning both of them in spot-duty. Currently, due to a Sam Darnold injury, Walker remains as the backup QB to Baker Mayfield going into 2022.
Donald Parham Tight End Dallas Renegades
Los Angeles Chargers
Parham made headlines this offseason after a potentially career-ending injury during week 15 of the 2021 season. Parham, who was a Top-10 XFL Receiver, left the Renegades after the league ceased operations and joined the Chargers. Over Two NFL seasons, Parham has recorded 30 receptions, 349 yards, and 6 touchdowns. Going into 2022 Parham looks to be the Top Tight End for Justin Herbert who is considered by many to be a MVP Candidate.
Storm Norton Offensive Lineman LA Wildcats
Los Angeles Chargers
Prior to joining the XFL, Norton was on and off practice squads for the Lions, Cardinals, and Vikings. When finally given an opportunity, Norton would be rated one of the highest-rated linemen in the XFL by PFF. Upon his release, Norton would play in 22 games including 17 starts for the Chargers, in 2020 and 2021. Though not considered an every-week starter Norton has proven he can be a capable back-up in the NFL.
Michael Dunn Offensive Linemen Seattle Dragons
Cleveland Browns
Dunn has played in every game for the AAF and XFL, before joining the Browns, After getting cut by the Dolphins in 2019 Dunn was drafted in the 6th round by the Dragons and started four out of five games for the Seattle Franchise. Upon the cancellation of operations Dunn joined the Browns as a reserve guard and in two seasons in Cleveland has played in 20 games including 2 starts.
Elijah Campbell Cornerback DC Defenders
Miami Dolphins
Campbell was a part of a Defenders team that had notable players like Tyree Jackson, Cardale Jones, Scooby Wright, and Tyler Rausa. Campbell, though not a star in the XFL, was solid enough to earn a shot with the Jets in late 2020 and even played in three games. After being placed on waivers by the Jets in 2021, Campbell was claimed by the Dolphins and appeared in 7 games recording 2 tackles. Going into 2022, Campbell remains on the active roster as a reserve DB looking to contribute on special teams.
Christian Kuntz Long Snapper Dallas Renegades
Pittsburgh Steelers
Originally signed by the Patriots as a Linebacker in 2017 UDFA, Kuntz was waived by Bill Belichek’s gang during final cuts. Upon transitioning to Long Snapper, Kuntz had stints with the Broncos, Jags, and Steelers, before joining the Renegades in the XFL. Due to his coverage abilities and long-snapping skill, Kuntz was brought back to the Steelers after tryouts with the Texans and Colts, eventually winning the Long snapper job in 2021, and playing in all 17 games.
Scott Daly Long Snapper New York Guardians
Detroit Lions
Since coming into pro football in 2018, Daly has had limited opportunities. After a stint with the Cowboys, Daly joined the AAF and XFL playing in 13 alt-league games for the Commanders and Guardians. After signing in 2021, Daly joined the Lions winning the Long Snapper job, and is now the starting long snapper in 2022 for Dan Campbell’s squad.
Nick Moore Long Snapper Tampa Bay Vipers
Baltimore Ravens
The final active player from XFL 2.0 is Nick Moore who like many on this list had a similar journey. Unlike others though, Moore had to beat out Morgan Cox, a stalwart of the Ravens special teams unit who made four pro bowls. Moore was a COVID replacement for Cox in 2020 and played well enough to become the full-time starter in 2021 a role he has retained in 2022.
Garrett Gilbert Could Carry a Spring Football League, But Will He Get The Chance To?
For most fans seeing our favorite quarterbacks play in these alt-leagues is what drives us to tune in or watch games. One QB that many have seen come up regarding the XFL is Garrett Gilbert, and I think he could be one of the players that solidify the XFL in 2023 or help grow the USFL.
By Pat Rifino
For most fans seeing our favorite quarterbacks play in these alt-leagues is what drives us to tune in or watch games. Alt-League QBs frequently have unique track records, some are like Josh Johnson and Kyle Sloter journeymen who have been on multiple teams, or guys like Ben Holmes small school prospects with limited opportunity who come out of nowhere. One QB that many have seen come up regarding the XFL is Garrett Gilbert, and I think he could be one of the players that solidify the XFL in 2023 or help grow the USFL.
Gilbert’s career has had a lot of ups and downs until the AAF Gilbert had only thrown 3 NFL passes. He’s been on 8 teams played in two leagues, and is currently a free agent. A record-setting high school quarterback Gilbert the Austin, Texas sports an accomplished pedigree that the XFL or USFL could build on.
Gilbert has already been in a spring league. He understands what it means to build these teams from scratch and from the ground up. His time in the AAF championed him into a position that he’s used to earn three more seasons of NFL experience. He’s even been able to start two games both on short notice and played admirably in both.
He also has a link with XFL Seattle OC June Jones. Jones was Gilbert’s Head Coach during his time at SMU in 2012 and 2013. While under Jones Gilbert was able to rebound and salvage his college career that started off promising at the University of Texas. Gilbert’s connection to Jones could not only serve as a marketing tool for fans in Texas, but also due to his familiarity with Jones’ run and shoot offense allow for some electric quarterback play. Another connection that GIlbert has with the league is that Russ Giglio was a part of the AAF when Gilbert signed and is now the Senior Director of Player Administration. Gilbert’s Texas ties and connection with June Jones make him a valuable marketing tool to several XFL franchises.
Gilbert’s career also has enough adversity to teach younger players about the ups and downs of being a pro. His constant life of being on the road, cut and signed multiple times, bodes well for players with similar journeys. It allows for players to have someone to look up to and provides younger players with the perfect example of what it means to be a “pro”.
At 31 years old the former AAF-MVP, has traveled and seen enough to look back on his pro football career and view it as a success. He’s a late-round pick who won a super bowl, made over 2.5 million dollars, played in 8 NFL seasons, and had an amazing career revival in an alt-football league. His longevity and pedigree are assets that the league can be utilized as selling points and even a recruiting tool to bring in other players with similar career arches.
“I think they can pick and choose who they want.” Sportico’s Brendan Coffey on XFL Seeking Investors Ahead of 2023 Kickoff
On the September 2nd episode of The Markcast, we were fortunate to have Brendan Coffey the sports finance reporter for Spotico on the show to talk through his recent report involving the XFL and Redbird Capital seeking investors ahead of the February 2023 return of the XFL.
By Reid Johnson
On the September 2nd episode of The Markcast, we were fortunate to have Brendan Coffey the sports finance reporter for Spotico on the show to talk through his recent report involving the XFL and Redbird Capital seeking investors ahead of the February 2023 return of the XFL.
When it was reported that the XFL was seeking money and potentially giving up 35%-45% equity stake in the league to do so, questions arose regarding the timing in which the XFL was choosing to go about this route, months before the league has even played its first down of football in the 3.0 era.
“They've been funding it till now, and, and I, I think it's pretty par for the course. In a business arrangement like this, I wanna bring in new money right, and, and that's, it's not just about the money, it’s about probably bringing in strategic partners that will have more of an interest in making sure the XFL is successful.”
Questions have also been posed about the viability of investing in spring football, with FOX Sports and their USFL property also seeking funds from people who would invest in spring football.
“There's a lot of demand these days to get to invest in sports and sports-related properties. So I don't think they'll have a problem finding a partner, I think they can pick and choose who they want.”
Brendan knows the value that sports and football especially carries, and believes that high valuation will carry over to the spring as well.
“You have to take a step back and look at sports in general, and there's a lot of money, a lot of institutional money that wants to get into sports.”
“That kind of, growth that outpaces the stock market over time, but that also is pretty shielded from recessions and consumer worries and things like that. It has a lot of appeal to institutional money and you see a lot of these funds, just getting a lot of investor money. So Redbird for instance they're raising a new fund with that, they're confident.”
To the question of why the XFL and Redbird Capital would look outside its own funds for investors, Brendan responded:
“There are a few aspects to it. The main one is the relationships. I think they wanna find partners who are gonna be invested in the XFL, help make it a winner. Right? Cause there are competing you know, other football league out there.”
Brendan also believes outside investors could help lighten the load of league co-owners Dany Garcia and Dwayne Johnson.
“Bringing in outside money, it does take a little bit of pressure off, The Rock and Dany Garcia and Redbird too, with having to continue to put more money into the league.”
In regards to the XFL potentially giving up too much stake too early in the league:
“The people who bring new money to help fund…what I've heard from our various sources, it’s not about cashing out. It really is about kind of expanding the pie.”
As to why people would want to invest and seek out investing in the XFL and other sports-related properties, Brendan points to the “sports media play” that everyone seems to be focused on getting into now.
“When you talk to people in the sports business investing side. They really view sports as a media play. So XFL is a media play. AC Milan is is a media play. There's, there's a lot of expectations that, that soccer will become more important to viewers in the US. With all of these, every sports property is a way to provide content to the media companies, which are willing to pay a premium for that content because it's the one thing people watch nowadays.”
For my complete interview with Brendan Coffey of Sportico, check out the link below.
Top 10 XFL Receivers of 2020, Where Are They Now?
With NFL training camps winding down, many USFL teams are seeing their former players get cut from the NFL teams. As with what we’ve seen for the AAF and XFL teams it’s not uncommon for many players to get cut. Recently with the XFL, set to begin drafting players in November of 2022, let's revisit some of our favorite receivers and see what they are up to post XFL 2.0.
By Pat Rifino
With NFL training camps winding down, many USFL teams are seeing their former players get cut from the NFL teams. As with what we’ve seen for the AAF and XFL teams it’s not uncommon for many players to get cut. Recently with the XFL, set to begin drafting players in November of 2022, let's revisit some of our favorite receivers and see what they are up to post XFL 2.0.
See my previous article, Two Years Later Where Are The Leading XFL Rushers of 2020?
Cam Phillips, Houston Roughnecks
31 Receptions 455 Yards 9 Touchdowns
Phillips exploded onto the XFL after being cut by the Bills in the NFL. Earning the XFL receiving triple-crown, Phillips would earn an NFL contract with the Carolina Panthers, however, an inability to contribute on Special Teams has always been Phillips' downfall. Phillips would get signed by the Hamilton Ti-Cats, before being released until joining the Toronto Argonauts in late 2021. Going into 2022, Phillips has become a bonafide starting receiver in the CFL so far starting 7 games in 2022.
Daniel Williams, Tampa Bay Vipers
23 Receptions 338 Yards 1 Touchdown
Williams was one of three top 10 receivers that were able to make waves in the XFL. Williams, who was on and off NFL practice squads before joining the Vipers, used the AAF to begin his solidification as an Alt-League pro. Post-XFL, Williams joined the Calgary Stampeders and would bounce between the Active Roster and Practice Squad. Williams would record Five Receptions for Fifty-Two Yards before being released.
Donald Parham, Dallas Renegades
24 Receptions 307 Yards 4 Touchdowns
The first Tight End on our list Parham provides some representation for the dynamic bigger guys out there. Parham easily was the best Tight End in the XFL and found himself employed rather quickly with the NFL’s LA Chargers. Since leaving the XFL Parham has become a reliable cog in the Chargers offense recording 30 receptions for 349 yards and 6 touchdowns. After an injury scare in 2021, Parham goes into 2022 as a premier pass catching option for Justin Herbert.
Jalen Tolliver, Tampa Bay Vipers
21 Receptions 297 Yards 1 Touchdown
A Division II prospect, Tolliver overachieved by seeing action with the Cardinals in 2018 recording 3 receptions for 37 yards in the NFL. Since then Tolliver didn’t see much NFL success. Tolliver would get cut in 2019 by the Cardinals, Chiefs, and Titans before finding himself in the XFL. Tolliver, despite an unstable QB room for the Vipers, Tolliver managed to become a Top-5 Reciever in the XFL and earned a CFL contract with the Edmonton Elks. Even though Tolliver played in 12 games and started 6 in 2021, he would get cut in June 2022 and is currently a free agent.
Tre McBride, LA Wildcats
16 Receptions 271 Yards 4 Touchdowns
A veteran of 17 NFL games, Tre McBride was traded from the DC Defenders to the LA Wildcats, to join Josh Johnson and Winston Moss. McBride would become a Top-5 receiver in the XFL and the leading receiver for Josh Johnson despite only playing in 4 of 5 XFL games. Currently McBride is out of football, and has not had an opportunity since the XFL 2.0.
Nick Holley, Houston Roughnecks
21 Receptions 267 Yards 2 Touchdowns
The former Kent State QB, came to the XFL after attempting to catch on in the NFL and being waived in the AAF. Holley would be a key weapon for PJ Walker in the slot as he transitioned from QB to RB to Slot receiver. Upon the completion of the XFL, Holley would join the Calgary Stampeders, and play in 3 games and starting 2 of them. Unfortunately Holley would get cut by the Stampeders in 2022 and is currently in the XFL draft pool for 2023.
Nelson Spruce, LA Wildcats
20 Receptions 267 Yards 2 Touchdowns
An Alt League favorite, Spruce began his pro-career in the NFL in 2016. Failing to get signed by several NFL franchises, Spruce would transition to the AAF with the San Diego Fleet where he was a Top-5 Reciever in that league. Upon the folding of the AAF, Spruce kept the momentum going in the XFL being the 7th best receiver in the league despite playing in only 3 games. Upon completion of the XFL, Spruce would get cut by the Montreal Alouettes in 2021 and has not played pro-football since.
L’Damian Washington, St. Louis Battlehawks
21 Receptions 252 Yards 2 Touchdowns
Washington bounced around the CFL and NFL before finally finding consistent employment within the AAF with the Birmingham Iron. Upon the completion of the AAF, Washington became the top receiver for Coach Hayes and Jordan Ta’amu in the Covid shortened XFL season. Upon completion of the XFL, Washington became the head coach at West Middle School in Columbia, Missouri before joining the Oklahoma Sooners as a Wide Receivers coach in 2022.
Reece Horn, Tampa Bay Vipers
27 Receptions 240 Yards 1 Touchdown
Horn has been in almost every professional football league in North America since turning pro. Horn has played in the NFL, CFL, ELF, TSL, AAF, and XFL and currently is back in the ELF playing for the Frankfurt Galaxy. Horn is also in the XFL Draft Pool for the 2023 XFL 3.0 season for a possible return to the United States
Jordan Smallwood, Los Angeles Wildcats
18 Receptions 236 Yards 1 Touchdown
Smallwood was an NFL preseason vet who never got an opportunity to play in a regular-season game. After stints with the Chiefs, 49ers, Lions, Chargers, and one stint with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, joined the LA Wildcats and became a reliable option for Josh Johnson. Smallwood, would earn a contract in CFL with the Ottawa Redblacks and would play in 3 games during the 2021 season. In 2022, Smallwood was released by the Redblacks and is currently a free agent.
“They’ve been looking at every single game, what worked, what didn't work.” The Washington Post’s Jake Russell on the XFL’s Return to Washington D.C. in 2023
On the August 26th episode of The Markcast, Jake Russell of The Washington Post made an appearance to talk about the XFL’s return to Washington D.C. and what to expect when the league hits the field for a third iteration in February 2023.
By Reid Johnson
On the August 26th episode of The Markcast, Jake Russell of The Washington Post made an appearance to talk about the XFL’s return to Washington D.C. and what to expect when the league hits the field for a third iteration in February 2023.
Jake, a die-hard football fan never had much interest in “alternative football” leagues until the XFL 1.0 came around in 2001.
“So growing up a diehard football fan, I'd never really had that much access to alternative football leagues as a little kid, I don't think the CFL was televised. Then Vince McMahon brought along XFL 1.0, when I was 12 Years old and I was at the peak of my NFL/WWF then now WWE fandom. When you combine like the best of both worlds, it was like I'm watching every single week, I’m watching every single game, so I was hooked with that league back then, I was really disappointed when it only lasted one year.”
When the XFL 2.0 returned in 2020 and had Washington D.C. as one of its initial 8 cities, Jake felt optimistic about the league’s chances before the pandemic shut everything down.
“I was disappointed when the second one went, you know went, bye bye because of the coronavirus pandemic. I thought that one had a good chance to stick around based on the financial investment put into it, the television marketing that they had, the TV rights that they had back then, and taking itself a little more seriously.”
The XFL’s return in 2020 brought along many innovations both on and off the football field which intrigued Jake as well as many other fans giving the league a first look.
“I thought with like the rules innovations, the camera angles, the different technologies they were trying. I thought they were doing really well.”
Although the pandemic shut the league down midway through its 2020 season, the XFL TV ratings were beginning to trend downward, Jake feels that that dip should not be too incredibly alarming.
“As expected the TV viewership went down from week one to week five, that was kind of to be expected with kind of any startup league, because initially, people wanna see what's new, they wanna see what innovations are going on, they wanna see how they're, you know, enacted. Of course naturally, as time goes on, they'll decide whether they wanna watch it or not.”
The XFL 3.0 regime has been hard at work prepping for their 2023 re-launch, Jake thinks it will be interesting to see how much carryover there is from how the league looked and felt in 2020 and what will return to XFL 2023.
“I’d have to imagine over the last couple of years, they’ve been looking at every single game, what worked, what didn't work. I would imagine you would think they would have to keep that kickoff rule that they had last time. I thought that was one of the better innovations that they had. I thought that was a great idea, it was unique, it was different, a combination of that and player safety. It also encourages kickoff returns, which the NFLs basically trying to, you know, relegate from the sport, which is disappointing.”
In terms of the XFL’s announced partnership with the NFL and its Alumni Academy, Jake is intrigued and optimistic.
“It's smart for them to want to be kind of a feeder league to the NFL that would help ensure business that would, you know, ensure stability, ensure a nice healthy working partnership with the NFL. I feel like they're separate enough from the NFL that they have the wiggle room to try out different things, to try out different rules like they did last time around and I think that's kind of what the NFL would want them to.”
Concerns have been raised about the XFL (and the USFL) focusing too much on being a minor league or “development” league for players and the leagues using that as a selling or marketing point to attract fans, Jake had this to say:
“If your number one goal is getting guys onto the next show and not worried about, you know, building your own league, I don't know. Do you worry about that turnover and them that like that is their selling point moving forward? I think there has to be a balance.”
In terms of casual NFL fans being “anti-XFL” or alternative football leagues and not wanting them as leagues to succeed, Jake suggests those detractors not watch, and find something else to do with their time.
“I just don't understand why people complain about spring football. Like if you don't like it don't watch it. I just don't understand the negativity towards it. I mean, that's just the same thing with pre much every other sports alternative out there. If you don't like it, don't watch it.”
You can check out Jake Russell and my full interview from our August 19th episode, I’ll include the link below.
“There’s a lot of really good talent that doesn’t make any NFL rosters, full stop.” BreakAway Data’s Steve Gera on XFL Partnership
On the August 19, 2022 edition of The Markcast, co-founder and president of BreakAway Data Steve Gera sat down to talk through his company’s partnership with the XFL, the talent they’re seeing being scouted for the league’s return in 2023, Jordan Palmer’s hiring to help train the XFL’s quarterbacks, and more.
By Reid Johnson
On the August 19, 2022 edition of The Markcast, co-founder and president of BreakAway Data Steve Gera sat down to talk through his company’s partnership with the XFL, the talent they’re seeing being scouted for the league’s return in 2023, Jordan Palmer’s hiring to help train the XFL’s quarterbacks, and more.
Throughout the last few months, the XFL had head local regional showcases around the US to look for talent ahead of their return to the field in February of 2023. Steve Gera and his company BreakAway data has been working alongside the XFL and the players at those showcase to provide the most up-to-date and reliable data for both the league in terms of scouting potential talent, and for the players looking to better their skillsets.
“So we're an athlete data company. What we do is we do really two core things. One is we put performance data in the hands of athletes. The second thing that we do too, is we have a product called field labs, which is an on-field biomechanics lab. We figure out exactly how much, how fast they get off the line of scrimmage, how much bend they actually get, do they accelerate or do they decelerate when they're actually in that, how's their burst...So what we do is we quantify all that.”
The XFL through their showcases and other scouting programs has seen hundreds of players across the country just this summer alone, what does Steve Gera think of the level of talent that’s available to the XFL, considering the USFL is already in full-swing planning for season 2 and many players are still tied up in NFL training camps.
“Listen, there's a lot of really good talent that doesn't make any NFL rosters like full stop. There's plenty of really good talent to have some compelling, you know, leads, especially with the XFL. Here's what I'd say is that after going to those showcases, I was really, I wouldn't say surprised, but I was, I was just, I was excited, about really two core things. One how much talent's actually out there, and then B, how much excitement is out there. The guys who were showing up to these showcases and the guys who were playing at this level, they love the game more than anything.
Along with the data-tracking and analytics that BreakAway Data can provide, Gera is confident that they can help the XFL discover the best talent possible.
“In today's game when coaches are so creative in creating one-on-one matchups and schemes, the name of the game in today's football is how do you find those undervalued talents who may not have ‘NFL measurables’ but are really damn good at one thing? There are a lot of athletes out there right now, and a lot of football players who are really good at some very specific things. And we were able to uncover a lot of that.”
The XFL announced this week the hiring of Jordan Palmer as their head of quarterback development, I asked Steve his thoughts on Jordan’s hiring and his role at XFL.
“There's a lot of really great quarterback coaches out there, but I don't know if you can find anyone better than Jordan right now, as far as like actually being able to take different styles of quarterbacks and get the best out them. He's amazing at doing that understanding, you know, a specific QB and then how to not to try and make them play the way that Jordan wants to see them play, but what I've seen is he just accentuates the best qualities out of quarterbacks. He does a tremendous job, probably the best in the business right now, in my humble opinion, as far as getting the best out of them.
Steve Gera also believes the XFL’s centralized approach to training and housing its players for the first three seasons will pay dividends to the level of play that hits the field.
“I think the thing that, that really gives you an advantage over is as frankly, just like kind of the quality control of the athlete development. Is it allows you instead of having eight teams spread out all over the place and so your knowledge is all of a sudden, very distributed, the great thing is is that by having all the knowledge of the league in that, in that tight confinement we're gonna see a lot of dividends on everything from return-to-play, when players get injured to personalized athlete development. Now you're gonna be able to reach back and forth between all the different people who are gonna be involved and you're gonna be able to solve and get some good solutions for specific athletes across all the different teams, and that's gonna raise all ships.”
Be sure to check out my full interview with Steve Gera of BreakAway Data at the link below!
“It’s a risk like any startup.” St. Louis Business Journal’s Nathan Rubbelke on XFL’s STL Return
On the August 19th edition of The Markcast, Nathan Rubbelke of the St. Louis Business Journal sat down to talk about the XFL (and potentially the BattleHawks) returning to the city of St. Louis in February 2023.
By Reid Johnson
On the August 19th edition of The Markcast, Nathan Rubbelke of the St. Louis Business Journal sat down to talk about the XFL (and potentially the BattleHawks) returning to the city of St. Louis in February 2023.
“It's amazing to see the enthusiasm still for the battle Hawks as at the grocery store last night, saw a BattleHawk shirts. So, you know, it'll be interesting to see if they can get the same engagement.”
St. Louis was one of the strongest franchises for the XFL back in 2020, and Nathan is curious to see if this new iteration backed by Dany Garcia, The Rock and Redbird Capital can “capitalize” pardon the pun on the hard work that was done back with the 2020 regime.
“I think a lot of that went to the team they had here for the, for the last iteration, the XFL. Kurt Hunzeker, who was the team president, really built a grassroots campaign. And of course, you had the people kind of wanted to stick it to the NFL here after the Rams left. So I think that was a huge driving factor of it of saying, ‘Hey, you didn't say, you said St. Louis, wasn't a football town, let us show you that it, that it actually is.’”
The million-dollar question with the XFL officially announcing its return to St. Louis is whether or not the “BattleHawks” team nickname will return when the league does.
“I know there's a lot of angst here when they made the initial announcement, it didn't give team names. Why in the world would they change, you know, moving the BattleHawks? That might not matter in a market like Seattle, it might make sense to rebrand.”
Besides covering sports in the city of St. Louis, Nathan also focuses his reporting on tech and startups. He likens the XFL 3.0 return to a tech startup when it comes to fundraising and looking for investors. On the topic of the XFL looking to sell off potentially 35%-45% of a stake in its league before the inaugural season has even kicked off, Rebbelke responded with:
“It doesn't really worry me a whole lot when I look at the league and what you're trying to accomplish. I kind look as sort of a startup you know. If you say you're a software company, and you're developing some sort of software, you might go out and raise a little bit of money at the start because you need some money to get this going, but then you're gonna create, you know, you're kind of minimal product. They could go to market at that point, you're probably gonna go out and raise more capital saying, ‘Hey, here we built it, we see opportunity here. Let's raise capital so we can grow it further.’ I kind of see that's where the XFL is at, they've got it kind of all the pieces put together and now they sort of need the capital probably to, to do some of the initiatives you just talked about in terms of social media and hiring.”
“It’s a risk like any startup, but I think I wouldn't be worried about it. I think it's just a growth initiative for them that I'm sure they had. They probably have figured bringing in capital. The question is, is it sooner or later than they wanted?”
In terms of the XFL and the USFL both seeking investors and funds at the same time, Rubbelke does view the USFL as more transparent in terms of the moves they’re looking to accomplish in the short-term future.
“They've (XFL) really kept a lot of things in the room about their plans. I know they'll start talking more about that as games get closer, but it has been hard to kind of track what their strategy is. Where I feel like the USFL, maybe it's been a little bit more open about you know what they're doing and why, so I'm hoping the XFL kind of gives us a peek behind the curtain, a little more into the business operations.”
With the XFL’s decision for the next 3 years to house their teams and staff in Arlington, Texas, and to fly them into local markets for game days, the XFL knows that they need to go out of their way to engage and interact with the local fanbases in their markets so that audience interest is high when the XFL takes the field in February of 2023. Nathan Rubbelke views the recent work of St. Louis head coach Anthony Becht making the media rounds in the city as a solid first step.
“The first kind of dipping their toes into the markets in their respective cities, and I think we're gonna see a lot more here in the next six months as they gear up for those first games.”
Be sure to check out our full interview on our YouTube channel, I’ll include the link below.