Reid Johnson 12/30/22 Reid Johnson 12/30/22

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.

Reid Johnson 9/14/22 Reid Johnson 9/14/22

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.

Reid Johnson 8/16/22 Reid Johnson 8/16/22

Revisiting the AAF-XFL-USFL Crossovers, How Did They Do?

In the month of April, I identified the original 16 players who were drafted by USFL teams in the 2022 draft. As we stated the USFL did a pretty good job of having new players in their league and though some familiar faces were added to the league (Luis Perez), I wanted to focus on the original crop of players that were originally sought after by the USFL. Below is referring to my original article with an update on how they did.

By Pat Rifino

Marquis Lucas New Orleans Breakers Offensive Tackle

Orlando Apollos and Tampa Bay Vipers

Lucas could have been an afterthought for the Breakers coming into camp, in fact he did the exact opposite. Lucas came in and was a lockdown tackle for the Breakers and helped lead them to a playoff berth. Lucas would start 10 games for the Breakers, the most games he’s started since college.

Terry Poole New Jersey Generals Offensive Tackle

San Diego Fleet and Houston Roughnecks

Terry Poole continued to dominate in the spring league realm as he continued his streak of starting spring league football games. Poole since the beginning of the spring football era (AAF) has started every possible spring football game in the regular season. Poole’s latest sample of play in the USFL saw himself get selected to the All-USFL team for Generals. Though his opportunity in the NFL may have passed Poole will definitely remain a key player in all future spring football endeavors.

Channing Stribling Philadelphia Stars Cornerback

Memphis Express and Seattle Dragons

Stripling is the second player on our list to make the All-USFL Team for 2022. Stribling came on the scene by storm and was viewed as Top cornerback in the USFL. Strbling’s seven interceptions led the USFL and allowed for the Stars to present a formidable Defense week in and week out. Stribling now will have the opportunity to lead the Stars vs the Stallions in the 2022 USFL championship to solidify his magical season.

Jamar Summers Houston Gamblers Cornerback

Birmingham Iron and New York Guardians

Summers was looked upon to be a pre-season All-USFL cornerback coming into 2022. Though solid, Summers did not register an INT while registering 26 total tacklers. At only 27 years old Summers added some credibility to a young league and was definitely an efficient starter in the USFL.

Bradley Sylve Philadelphia Stars Cornerback

Birmingham Iron and DC Defenders

Stars went back to the spring league cookie jar by drafting Sylve in the 11th round. Sylve would battle injuries throughout the 2022 season and would only register 8 tackles this year.

Jack Tocho Philadelphia Stars Safety

Birmingham Iron and LA Wildcats

Tocho did not report to training camp with the Stars and has not been on the spring football radar so far since Spring 2022.

Beniquez Brown Houston Gamblers Linebacker

Birmingham Iron and Houston Roughnecks

Brown would play a reserve role for the Gamblers. Surrounded by Reggie Northrup and Donald Payne Brown would play sparingly and register 15 tackles for a Gamblers defense that was a bright spot in an extremely bleak season.

Scooby Wright III Birmingham Stallions Linebacker

Arizona Hotshots and DC Defenders

Wright was immediately a USFL fan favorite in Birmingham as the “Sharkdawg” made his presence known during the opening week of the season. Though hampered by some injuries, a leaner, meaner, Scooby Wright was a dynamic playmaker for the Southern Division Birmingham Stallions. Add a Defensive Player of the Week award and many will say Scooby Wright was viewed as a top-ten linebacker in the USFL when healthy.

Taiwan Jones Michigan Panthers Linebacker

Memphis Express and LA Wildcats

Jones would be the second player on our list of originals to not report to camp come April for the Panthers. He seems to have retired from pro football.

Damien Mama Tampa Bay Bandits Offensive Guard

San Diego Fleet and New York Guardians

Mama, came on strong for the Bandits that was one of the most up and down offenses in the USFL. Mama would start every game at guard for the Bandits and would provide consistent interior protection for Ta’amu during the 2022 USFL Season.

De’Veon Smith Pittsburgh Maulers Running Back

Orlando Apollos and Tampa Bay Vipers

The most controversial player in the USFL despite never playing a game. Smith was the victim of Kirby Wilson’s Pizzagate and would be cut for “disrespecting the USFL staff” and replaced with Madre London. Smith is adamant about wanting to play football and has been vocal on Twitter about wanting to keep his career going.

Trey Williams New Jersey Generals Running Back

San Antonio Commanders and Seattle Dragons

Williams was a part of the three headed monster that included Darius Victor, DeAndre Johnson and him. Williams would place 2nd in the USFL with 579 yards. Williams was a part of an extremely dynamic Generals rushing attack that won the Northern Division however lost in the playoffs.

Frank Ginda Michigan Panthers Linebacker

San Diego Fleet and New York Guardians

Ginda was an afterthought in the AAF and XFL however, would really come into his own with the Panthers. One of the leaders of Panthers, Ginda would place second in the USFL with 89 tackles only behind Donald Payne. Though slightly liable in the passing game, Ginda would prove to be a sure-handed Linebacker in the run game.

Austin MacGinnis New Orleans Breakers Kicker

Memphis Express and Dallas Renegades

MacGinnis was originally one of my pre-season picks to be on the All-USFL team since he’s only missed 2 professional field games. MacGinnis would start the season like many USFL kickers, wildly inaccurate. Before getting replaced MacGinnis would go 2 for 5 on field goals and 4 for 7 on extra points. MacGinnis would later be transferred to the inactive list, according to USFL reports.

Nick Truesdell New Jersey Generals Tight End

Salt Lake Stallions and Tampa Bay Vipers

Truesdell would go into camp however suffer injuries. After spending two weeks on the practice squad/inactive roster Truesdell would be released after approx. a month with the team and is currently not playing pro football.

Ryan Navarro Philadelphia Stars Long Snapper

Memphis Express and LA Wildcats

Navarro is another Stars player that has AAF and XFL ties. Navarro proved his consistent solid play as he appeared in each game this year. He also registered 2 tackles before the end of the season.

Overall the original 16 AAF-XFL crossover yielded mixed results. 4 players did not show/got cut, 2 became All-USFL players, 2 would not make it to the end of the year, and 8 would finish the year as contributors/starters at their position. As we’ve seen in spring football many times these players often re-tread in these leagues. With the XFL coming in 2023, will we see former AAF and XFL 2.0 players come back on a new list? Only time will tell.

Reid Johnson 4/19/22 Reid Johnson 4/19/22

Pro Football Quarterback Earnings as it relates to Alternative Football Leagues

Per Spotrac, 111 QBs were at one point employed by an NFL team during the 2021 Regular Season. With the USFL expected to kick off on the 16th of April, 16 more men will be paid to play quarterback at a professional level.

By Pat Rifino

This off-season only one quarterback has officially retired in the NFL. Ben Roethlisberger retired as a Top-Ten QB who led the Steelers to two super bowl victories during his career. But the main point of this article isn’t to highlight the career of Big Ben. It’s to point out the lack of movement and opportunity of the QB position, and that maybe the league is headed towards a deadlock at the position.

Per Spotrac, 111 QBs were at one point employed by an NFL team during the 2021 Regular Season. This does not include QBs who were not on NFL rosters during training camp who received roster bonuses, per diem and other monetary compensation. With the USFL expected to kick off on the 16th of April, 16 more men will be paid to play quarterback at a professional level. The below chart is a list of all QBs who had a “cup of tea” in the NFL during the 2021 season and their earnings.

The inspiration of this article comes from two recent events in the professional football landscape occurring. First, the recent unretirement of Tom Brady and how him playing for the Buccaneers shifts the outlook for the NFL 2022 season. Second, the fact that as I write this article it seems that only one team in the NFL doesn’t have a day one starter (Seahawks) meaning that the QB market for 2022 is honestly filled up and it doesn’t have much movement.

Tom Brady staying in the NFL means a lot of things for the league. It means that yes, the Buccaneers are favorites to win another Super Bowl but it also takes away several opportunities for NFL players and prospects. In 2021 the Bucs had four QBs on their roster/ practice squad. Tom Brady, Blaine Gabbert, Kyle Trask, and Ryan Griffin. For a coach like Bruce Arians who has “his guys” I can expect that the QB room will look extremely similar for his 2022 season which means no room for fresh blood in the NFL. No new starter, no new back-up and most likely no new late round pick or UDFA joining the Bucs on the PS with hope of gaining a chance to make a living in the NFL.

Now I am in no way discrediting the skills of Tom Brady as one, he is the GOAT and two, light years better than any QB in NFC outside of Aaron Rodgers and the fact he hasn’t had bad season yet to me means he is more than capable at the age of 44 (45 in Week 1), than most in this league. However,what I am saying is that the Bucs are one of many teams in the NFL that seem to have a solidified QB room with limited movement of personnel.

This leads into my second reason for writing this article: how many spots are left for QBs in the NFL? Only five teams have two QBs on their roster going into the NFL Draft and the remainder of free agency. One thing that peaks my interest is the fact that the market still yields capable and competent backups on the market. Ryan Fitzpatrick, Blaine Gabbert, Geno Smith, Cam Newton, and Andy Dalton are all serviceable back ups who could easily provide adequate depth at position and veteran mentorship.

***Update Andy Dalton was signed by the New Orleans Saints on 30March22***

This “overload” of serviceable QBs has in a way put the NFL in a conundrum. It may seem that the 2022 season has many teams in a “comfortable” position under center, or at least content enough to see if they can win with “their guy”. For example during most off-seasons, a QB like Baker Mayfield would be a hot commodity, but right now it seems that the former Number One overall pick will be released since the Seahawks are the only viable option for him. Even Jimmy Garoppolo seems to be “stuck” with the 49ers, as the options for him to go to another team are few and far between.

The NFL is definitely on the younger side of things regarding the QB position. In 2021 only four QBs over the age of 35 played sixteen or more games. One of those QBs retired (Ben Roethlisberger) and the other three are Matt Ryan (Colts), Tom Brady (Bucs), and Aaron Rodgers (Packers). Twenty-one teams had QBs under 30 start the majority of their games while the remaining 7 fell between the ages of 31-34. This bottleneck of youth is a great thing but it can lead to QB stagnation

QB stagnation seemingly, reared its ugly head a couple times in 2022. Giants fans had to witness Mike Glennon post a 4:10 TD to Int ratio in 6 starts, while Vikings fans had their playoff hopes die with Sean Mannion in week 17. Due limited opportunities QBs like Mannion, and Glennon often can stay in the league for years as Glennon and Mannion have both played in the NFL for at least seven years. Glennon has earned 31.9 Million and Mannion 6.2 Million dollars throughout their careers and Mannion will earn even more after being re-signed by the Vikings again. Even though Glennon and Mannion are appearing to be on the outs of pro football, A couple QBs may have escaped “QB Stagnation” and have become viable pro’s again.

QB’s like Mike White, Cooper Rush, Trevor Siemien, Josh Johnson and Garrett Gilbert seem to have escaped QB stagnation for the moment due to strong performances in spot starts. QB’s like this were bouncing between practice squad anonymity and now going into 2022 seem to be in position to have solidified jobs. What’s even more important is that two of these QB’s are former spring league alumni.

Gilbert and Johnson have bounced around the NFL for years. Johnson being a 5th rd draft pick 08’ and Gilbert was a 6th rd draft pick in 14’ have both played for over nine pro teams in their careers. Both entered QB stagnation, and both needed an opportunity in the spring leagues to push them into QB relevancy which they have translated into additional years in their career. Unfortunately for QBs in 2021 there was no spring league to help them earn additional opportunities.

Going into 2022 there are four major leagues in which a college athlete can gain employment as a quarterback in North America. The NFL, CFL, USFL, and FCF all are opportunities to play football at a high level. Even with all those teams and leagues the rough number of roster spots is only 152 opportunities. To put that in perspective there are 129 FBS teams in college. The opportunity for employment at a professional level is few and far between.

On April 16th the USFL kicks off and so far seventeen QBs have at one point signed a contract with the league (Ben Holmes was released in camp). Out of the Seventeen, Eleven have earned paycheck from an NFL team. Out of those Eleven, Six have been on an active NFL roster. Of those Six, Two have played in an NFL game and only One of those Two have thrown a touchdown in an NFL regular season game.

The lack of experience is terrifying in the USFL however, the potential is extremely exciting. The potential of a new batch of talent and a chance to see these young QBs play at a professional level and possibly get another chance at the NFL. The USFL allows for NFL GM’s and staff to look at these players at a “high level” and gain valuable game film. Even more importantly it is going to allow for players to transition into the league who deserve to be on an NFL roster.

In the NFL QB3’s and QB4’s receive a limited amount of opportunity to showcase their skills and oftentimes a bad rep in practice/preseason can lead to a player getting released. With the USFL these QBs can find themselves in a position ready to take meaningful snaps at a moment's notice.

As a Giants fan it killed me to watch Mike Glennon continue to receive meaningless snaps in an attempt for him to extend a career that should have ended in 2020 with Jacksonville. It was a relief to see Jake Fromm take the field and even though he didn’t “light it up” he was given an opportunity to play and proved that he is not ready/may not be ready for the NFL. With the USFL a player like Fromm could have received game reps at game speed and it would have been answered months before if Fromm could be a professional QB.

Metlife legend Mike White was also in a similar situation until his opportunity. He however, beat the Bengals and threw for over 400 yds in his first start, most likely extending his career. One thing is clear, alternative football is needed so players can stay sharp (especially QBs) before they are called to the big stage. Hopefully, with the addition of USFL QBs I’d like to believe that GM’s will put the pressure on their existing roster in an attempt to garner more skilled players.

As with every league, the USFL will most likely lead to an opportunity for many of the new batch of spring QBs. Hopefully with this new league, players will seize the opportunity to play at a high level to garner game film. With the NFL most likely looking pretty similar for the next couple years, the USFL or XFL may be the only opportunity for fans to see fresh faces under center and allow these players a different avenue for them to make a living and most importantly support their families.

Reid Johnson 4/19/22 Reid Johnson 4/19/22

Where are the Leading AAF Rushers Now?

With the USFL kicking off I wanted to go down memory and revisit some of the leading rushers for the AAF teams. Some of the players have remained relevant and continued their careers while others have fallen into professional football anonymity.

By Pat Rifino

In 2019 many fans of Alt Football were blessed to experience the Alliance of American Football. While the season was cut short for eight weeks fans were able to enjoy another avenue and outlet of professional football. With the USFL kicking off I wanted to go down memory and revisit some of the leading rushers for the AAF teams. Some of the players have remained relevant and continued their careers while others have fallen into professional football anonymity.

Atlanta Legends: Tarean Folston 56 Att 236 Yds 1 TD

Folston went undrafted out of Notre Dame in 2017 after tearing his ACL his senior year. Upon receiving zero NFL interest Folston joined the AAF’s Atlanta Legends out rushing both Brandon Radcliff and Aaron Murray. Folston would extend his career with the Tampa Bay Vipers and would be De’Veon Smith’s backup. After a short stint in the CFL with the Edmonton Elks Folston has since found his way out of football.

Arizona Hotshots: Jhurell Pressley 96 Att 430 Yds 1 TD

Despite only scoring one touchdown Pressley led the league in rushing for the AAF. Before joining the AAF Pressley would have stints with the Vikings, Packers, Falcons, Jaguars, and Giants. Upon the AAF folding, Pressley would be drafted in the 3rd round of the XFL draft by the DC Defenders where he would again lead his team in rushing. Pressley has remained unsigned upon the folding of the XFL 2.0.

Birmingham Iron: Trent Richardson 125 Att 366 Yds 11 TD

Richardson is definitely the most notable name on this list. The number three overall pick in the 2012 draft has had a diverse career for sure. After being released by the Ravens in 2016, Richardson went to the CFL in 2017. In 2018, a child custody battle would force Richardson to join the AAF in which he had a surprisingly successful season scoring Twelve Touchdowns in Eight games. After the AAF Richardson joined the AAF Futbol Americano de Mexico, where he is the running back for the Caudillos de Chihuahua.

Memphis Express: Zac Stacy 101 Att 312 Yds 3 Td

Stacy was once a promising 5th rd pick out of Vanderbilt in 2013, rushing for almost 1,000 yds in his rookie season. Stacy would underperform in 2014 and 2015 before “retiring” in 2017 due to injuries. After coming out of retirement in 2018 Stacy would join the Saskatchewan Roughriders, but would be released in the preseason. Stacy would lead the underwhelming Express team in rushing and be second on the team in receiving. Stacy currently is in prison due to domestic assault charges in 2021.

Orlando Apollos: D'ernest Johnson 64 Att 372 Yds 2 Td

Johnson may be the most successful story on our list. Upon not being signed in 2018, Johnson joined the Orlando Apollos in the AAF. Johnson would be a part of the most dynamic offense in the AAF, and was second in the league in rushing. Johnson would translate his success in the AAF into a roster spot in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns. Johnson came to notoriety in week 7 of the 2021 season as Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt were both ruled out due to injury. Johnson ran for 146 yards on 22 carries and one touchdown, and was named FedEx Ground Player of the Week. Johnson is still currently signed by the Browns for the 2022 season.

Salt Lake Stallions: Joel Bouagnon 101 Att 360 Yds 6 TD

Bouagnon would enter professional football as an UDFA. After stints with the Bears, Packers, Lions, and Jets, Bouagnon would join the Stallions in 2019. Bouagnon put up solid numbers placing in the Top 5 in rushing yards, and was 2nd in rushing touchdowns.Upon the termination of the AAF, Bouagnon has remained unsigned.

San Antonio Commanders:Kenneth Farrow 106 372 4 TD

Farrow was viewed as a fan favorite in the AAF and in Spring Football in general. After playing in thirteen games with the Chargers in 2016, Farrow spent 2017 injured and 2018 on practice squads before joining the Commanders in 2019. Farrow would place 2nd in rushing before the league folded. He would then join the Seattle Dragons, in 2020 joining Ja’Quan Gardner in the XFL where he would lead the Dragons in rushing. Since the XFL, Farrow has not played or been signed by a professional team.

San Diego Fleet: Ja'Quan Gardner 64 Att 311 Yds 3 TD

Gardner signed with the San Francisco 49ers as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2018. He provided depth at running back during the organization’s final preseason gameGardner was released, and joined the AAF in 2019. Gardner would set the record for longest rush in the AAF, before joining Kenneth Farrow with the XFL’s Seattle Dragons. Since the XFL folded Gardner has remained unsigned despite declaring for the 2022 USFL Draft.

Reid Johnson 3/14/22 Reid Johnson 3/14/22

AAF-XFL-USFL Crossovers

By Pat Rifino

Spring Football is back! And for most of us this is the 6th attempt at an alternative football that many of us have experienced in our lives. Yep, this time it’s the USFL part two, that will grace our screens in less than thirty days, but this time the USFL is taking a bit of a different approach than the leagues of the past. The USFL actively drafted and recruited multiple players who did not have alternative football experience and out of the 279 players drafted in the USFL draft only 51 were members of the XFL. To break down those numbers even more out of the 51, 16 had both AAF and XFL experience. That equates to around 6%! As April 16th looms quicker and quicker I’ve taken the time to highlight several of those players as they will be looked upon to lead this new era of football come April 16th.

54th Overall: New Orleans Breakers Marquis Lucas OT

Orlando Apollos and Tampa Bay Vipers

This Offensive Tackle took awhile to really begin contributing in professional football but managed to make two starts for the Tampa Bay Vipers in 2020. With the Breakers taking him as their third offensive tackle on the team, look for Lucas to remain a role player on the Breakers roster.

56th Overall: New Jersey Generals Terry Poole OT

San Diego Fleet and Houston Roughnecks

Poole was actually a 4th round pick in 2015 by the Seahawks, however never actually could make it on the field. Since leaving the NFL Poole has been with the Fleet and Roughnecks in which he has started thirteen out of thirteen spring football games. As one of the more seasoned members of the Generals Offense expect Poole to be penciled in as a day one starter.

62nd Overall: Philadelphia Stars Channing Stribling CB

Memphis Express and Seattle Dragons

A former Michigan man, Stribling didn’t really become a full time starter in college until his senior season. However, after getting cut by several NFL teams, Stribling would join the Memphis Express in 2019 starting six games in the AAF. Stribling would also spend 2020 starting five games for the Seattle Dragons before the league would cease operations due to COVID.

66th Overall: Houston Gamblers Jamar Summers CB

Birmingham Iron and New York Guardians

Summers went undrafted in 2018 despite starting thirty-nine games out of UCONN, After being cut by the Steelers, Summers went to the Birmingham Iron of the AAF earning Special Teams Player of the Week at one point. Summers' success in the AAF earned him two more NFL opportunities and he was even a First Round draft pick by the Guardians in the XFL.

91st Overall: Philadelphia Stars Bradley Sylve CB

Birmingham Iron and DC Defenders/LA Wildcats

Sylve won three National Championships at Alabama before going undrafted in 2016. After getting cut by the Bills and having a short stint on the Saints Practice Squad, Sylve started four games for the Iron in the AAF before becoming a 5th round draft pick in the XFL. Though he didn’t start any games Sylve is credited with scoring the first defensive touchdown of the XFL 2.0.

141st Overall: Philadelphia Stars Jack Tocho Safety

Birmingham Iron and LA Wildcats

Tocho was the 3rd member of the Stars secondary to have both AAF and XFL experience showing that Coach Bart Andrus values seasoned veterans in his defensive backfield. Tocho has played a lot of Football since enrolling in NC State in 2013. Tocho has started thirty-six games in college, and an additional thirteen in the AAF and XFL. As the first Safety taken in the USFL draft expect Tocho to make an immediate impact for the Stars.

166th Overall: Houston Gamblers Beniquez Brown ILB

Birmingham Iron and Houston Roughnecks

Beniquez Brown stays in Houston as he joins the Gamblers, by way of the Roughnecks. A tackling machine, Brown amassed two hundred tackles at Mississippi State, and amassed another One Hundred and Ten in the AAF and XFL.

169th Overall: Birmingham Stallions Scooby Wright III ILB

Arizona Hotshots and DC Defenders

At one point considered a Heismen Candidate, injuries derailed Scooby Wright’s draft status as he fell to the Cleveland Browns in the 7th Round. Wright still has put together a solid professional career playing in thirteen NFL games and eleven games in the AAF and XFL. He’s also the first player on our list that has played in the NFL so far.

176th Overall: Michigan Panthers Taiwan Jones ILB

Memphis Express and LA Wildcats

Jones was a standout at Michigan State before going undrafted in 2015. After a short stint with the Jets in which he would play in three games in 2016. After spending three years out of football Jones’ joined the Memphis Express before the league shutdown. After a stint with the LA Wildcats as a reserve Linebacker, Jones looks to join the Panthers as their starting Linebacker in 2022.

187th Overall: Tampa Bay Bandits Damien Mama OG

San Diego Fleet and New York Guardians

Coming out of USC Mama was an All-Pac 12 Second Team selection before going Undrafted in 2017. Mama, would get cut by three NFL teams before debuting for the Fleet in 2019. While in the AAF and XFL Mama would start nine games while appearing in twelve games before getting drafted by the Bandits.

225th Overall: Pittsburgh Maulers De’veon Smith RB

Orlando Apollos and Tampa Bay Vipers

The Second player out of Michigan to be on this list, Smith burst onto the scene with the explosive Orlando Apollos Offense that was led by Garrett Gilbert. After the AAF folded Smith would join the Vipers in 2020 where he would be the leading rusher before the league ceased operations.

230th Overall: New Jersey Generals Trey Williams RB

San Antonio Commanders and Seattle Dragons

Williams joins the Generals after only receiving just over two hundred carries in college. Despite being almost thirty, Williams should be rather fresh after appearing in eleven games in the XFL and AAF.

244th Overall: Michigan Panthers Frank Ginda OLB

San Diego Fleet and New York Guardians

Ginda was considered one of the best Linebackers in the Mountain West Conference during his college years. After going undrafted in 2018 Ginda was a stand out player in the AAF and XFL. Still relatively young at 24 Ginda has plenty of good football left in him before his playing days are done.

258th Overall: New Orleans Breakers Austin MacGinnis K

Memphis Express and Dallas Renegades

After a couple game winners in the AAF, MacGinnis joined the Renegades where he went 10 for 10 on field goals in the XFL. MacGinnis is expected to be one of the higher echelon special teams players in the USFL.

275th Overall: New Jersey Generals Nick Truesdell TE

Salt Lake Stallions and Tampa Bay Vipers

Truesdell could be considered an AFL legend well before he joined the AAF or the XFLDuring his time in AFL Truesdell has caught over 100 passes including a 23 touchdown season with the Spokane Shock in 2015. During his time with the Salt Lake Stallions Truesdell was considered a Top Tight End, However, only caught nine passes in the XFL.

278th Overall: Philadelphia Stars Ryan Navarro LS

Memphis Express and LA Wildcats

Navarro played in all thirteen possible spring games for the AAF and XFL before getting drafted by the Stars. One of Four Long Snappers drafted Navarro, has also had stints with Raiders (2017) and Washington Redskins (2018) before joining the Express.

With the USFL scheduled to have their supplemental draft on March 10th, we can expect the percentage of players with AAF and XFL experience to rise. However, with the USFL trying to become its own brand, I think they did a pretty good job of shying away from “re-treads”. Regardless, football fans can rejoice that they will be able to see some of their favorite players take the field on April 16th, and maybe find some new players they can root for, in less than 45 days.

Make sure to check out our new article updating and revisiting these players following the 2022 USFL season!

Reid Johnson 3/14/22 Reid Johnson 3/14/22

Top Ten Major Alternative QB Seasons

By Pat Rifino

As spring football looms, one of the many followed story lines is always Quarterbacks. Playing Quarterback at a professional level could be viewed as one of the most difficult tasks to perform in professional sports. As we’ve seen multiple times, spring football/alternative league football has allowed many quarterbacks’ to continue their career in addition to keeping their skills sharp. With the USFL taking place in about a month, I wanted to highlight my top ten seasons from some of the major alternative leagues. Hopefully, some of the new players drafted have continued success in their careers and they can be added to this list in the next several years.

10.) Mike Pawlawski San Francisco Demons (2001) 1659 Yds 12 TDs 6 Int

Pawlawski may be one of the less notable players on the list however, is one of the five players in this list that has actually played in a championship. Pawlawski never played in the NFL however, threw over Three Hundred Touchdowns in the Arena League. After last playing with the Albany Firebirds, Pawlawski joined the XFL’s San Francisco Demons where he would lead the team to the XFL Championship where they lost to the LA Xtreme.

9.) Ryan Willis TSL Linemen (2021) 1680 Yds 13 TDs 5 Int

I was hesitant to add a Spring League QB but Ryan Willis was too damn good in 2021 for the Linemen. After leading the league in almost every passing category Willis would lead The Linemen to a Championship and was the MVP of The Spring League as well. Willis would translate his success into a practice squad signing with the Bears. Willis was even active for one game in 2021 and was re-signed by the Bears for the 2022 season.

8.) J.P. Losman Las Vegas Locomotives (2009) 1193 Yds 9 TDs 2 INT

Losman was a former 1st Round Pick in 2004 out of Tulane. After uninspiring play in Buffalo, Losman joined the Las Vegas Locomotives in the inaugural season of the league. Where he would throw Nine touchdowns and put up a QB rating of 98.0. He would lead the Locomotives to a UFL Championship in his lone season, and would translate his success into two more seasons in the NFL, before retiring in 2011.

7.) Jordan Ta’amu St. Louis Battlehawks (2020) 1050 5 TDs 2 INT

Ta’amu’s passing stats may not have been the most impressive however, he did lead the XFL in completion percentage and was one of three XFL QBs to throw for over one thousand yards in 2020. His rushing ability also was an underrated part of his game ranking 6th among all players. Ta’amu’s most notable accomplishment was that he was able to revitalize football in St. Louis after the city was still upset about the departure of the Rams. After being drafted 2nd Overall in the USFL,Ta’amu now has the opportunity to lead the Tampa Bay Bandits in 2022.

6.) John Wolford Arizona Hotshots (2019) 1617 Yds 14 TDs 7 INT

Wolford came out of nowhere in 2019 and seemingly was the only competition for the Orlando Apollos in the AAF. Wolford ranked Second in yards, and first in touchdowns (14). He also led the Hotshots to a 5-3 which was 1st in the AAF’s Western Conference. Wolford would go on to sign with the Rams in 2019, and recently won a Super Bowl with the Rams as Matt Stafford’s backup.

5.) Josh Johnson Los Angeles Wild Cats (2020) 1092 Yds 11 TDs 2 INT

Despite playing in only four Games in the XFL 2020 season Johnson ranked 2nd in almost every major passing category. Easily the 2nd best/dynamic QB in the XFL Johnson was on pass to put up great numbers despite playing one less game than his competition. Johnson has used his success in the XFL to extend his NFL career, and even though he is a free agent should garner plenty of interest for the 2022 season.

4.) Garrett Gilbert Orlando Apollos (2019) 2152 Yds 13 TDs 3 Int

The de facto MVP of the AAF led the Apollos to a 7-1 record before the league abruptly ended. Before the league folded, Gilber was 2nd in Passing TDs, 1st in Passing Yards, and 1st in Passer Rating. Gilbert has been able to create stability in his NFL career now, starting two games (Cowboys and WFT) in the NFL, and showing to be an extremely capable reserve quarterback.

3.) Brooks Bollinger Florida Tuskers (2009) 1518 Yds 14 TDs 3 INT

Bollinger’s 2009 season put him as the top QB in the UFL during the 2009 season. He would lead the Tuskers to a 6-0 record however, they would lose to J.P. Losman’s Las Vegas Locomotives in the UFL Championship game. Despite losing in the UFL championship, Bollinger was awarded UFL MVP, and led the league in all major passing categories. Bollinger would come back to the UFL in 2010, however injuries forced him to miss half the season, and he would retire at the end of the season. Bollinger’s 19 passing touchdowns are tied for the most in “Alternative League Football” (TSL,AAF.XFL and UFL), a record only Jordan Ta’amu at this time could possibly tie or beat.

2.) Tommy Maddox Los Angeles Xtreme (2001) 2186 Yds 18 TDs 9 INT

The all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns for the XFL had a bit of a career resurgence due to the league. Maddox, would lead the Xtreme to a League Championship along with winning the league MVP which would spearhead him to the Pittsburgh Steelers later that fall. Maddox would end his career with the Steelers after winning a Super Bowl and the 2002 NFL Comeback Player of the Year. He is also the only QB to throw for over 2,000 yards in the XFL, granted ten games does help.

1.) PJ Walker Houston Roughnecks (2020) 1338 15 TDs 4 INT

Walker came out of nowhere for the Roughnecks in 2020. Originally an afterthought Walker’s opportunity came only due to the recommendation of Andrew Luck talking to his father the leagues former CEO. Walker would not waste the opportunity throwing 15 touchdowns and leading each passing category. Due to the 2020’s pandemic, Walker could not complete the season, and failed to break all the original records set by Tommy Maddox. Walker would also lead Houston to 5-0 record, and in position to earn an XFL championship. Upon the cancellation of the league, Walker has signed with the Panthers and despite lacking statistical success, he’s 2-0 as an NFL starter, and recently signed an extension for the 2022 NFL season.

Reid Johnson 3/1/22 Reid Johnson 3/1/22

A Review of Spring League QBs in the NFL

The USFL is coming back in less than sixty days, and with that being said some new QBs will once again have a chance to showcase their skills in front of live competition. These reps against higher caliber players will not help them possibly extend their professional careers, but could also help them solidify the existence of the USFL and allow it to place the league in high esteem with not only fans but also investors and networks. That all starts with solid quarterback play and in alternative football leagues have been hit or miss when it comes to the most important position on the field.

by Patrick Rifino

Washington Football Team - Garrett Gilbert

The most prolific passer in the AAF cut his teeth last year with the Dallas Cowboys playing valiantly in a loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2020. After getting cut by the Cowboys at the conclusion of the 2021 training camp, Gilbert was able to sign with the Patriots until the COVID bug hit the Washington Football Team. With Kyle Allen, and Taylor Heinicke both sidelined due to the virus, Gilbert was able to step in and start over Kyle Shurmur on less than a week’s notice. Despite losing against the Eagles, in his lone start of 2021 Gilbert continued to show he is a capable player in the NFL and should continue to garner work in 2022.

Baltimore Ravens - Josh Johnson

Josh Johnson has played for almost half of the NFL and may have another opportunity to play for a couple more. The 35-year-old journeyman quarterback is now stranger to alternative leagues after having stints with the UFL, AAF, and XFL. Due to injuries, COVID Johnson played in four games in 2021 and despite losing his only start, threw five touchdowns to two interceptions. Due to Johnson’s experience and recent success in 2021 he will most likely find himself employed for one more year in the NFL. Maybe we will see him in the XFL in 2023? Who knows.

Chicago Bears - Ryan Willis

Many might not know about Ryan Willis as he was a late season pick up by the Chicago bears in 2021. After going undrafted in 2020, a Spring League championship win garnered him some credibility as a professional quarterback. With Andy Dalton and Justin Fields sidelined, Willis was signed to the practice squad to back up Nick Foles in December. The Bears must have liked Willis enough to re-sign him as he will break into camp in 2022 with them vying for a roster spot.

Carolina Panthers - PJ Walker

The former XFL star has never lost a professional game in his career going 7-0 between his time in the XFL and NFL. Though his NFL experience doesn’t live up to his stats in the XFL Walker once again filled in and played well enough to lead the Panthers to a victory in 2021. With the Quarterback room in Carolina in complete disarray the Panthers resigned Walker to come back and compete with Sam Darnold to hopefully bring some stability to a franchise seeking their first playoff appearance since 2017.

LA Rams - John Wolford

The former Hotshot QB made waves in the AAF winning the player of the week twice before the league folded. Wolford did not play much in 2021 but the recent super bowl champ has solidified himself as a solid backup QB with his win in 2020 during his lone regular season start. With the Rams getting ready to run it back in 2022, Wolford seems to have created a niche for himself in the QB room that may need some administrative help with Offensive Coordinator going to Minnesota to coach the Vikings.

Tennessee Titans - Logan Woodside

Woodside made waves as the AAF’s San Antonio Commanders. The Titans have tried to replace him with Matt Barkley, Trevor Siemien and Cole McDonald since opting to let Marcus Maritoa leave for Oakland but Woodside has continued to outlast them both. With 2022 on the forefront and Woodside a free agent his NFL future may remain in question however, it looks like he definitely has an opportunity to continue to play in the NFL.

Washington Football Team - Taylor Heinicke

After going toe to toe with Tom Brady during the 2020 playoffs, Heinicke was brought back and beat out Kyle Allen for the QB2 job behind Ryan Fitzpatrick. The former XFL Battlehawk would play admirably throughout 2021 but ultimately did not have enough magic to get the WFT to the playoffs for the second straight year. Heinicke is signed with Washington for 2022 and may be in the mix to open week one as QB1 possibly. Not bad for Jordan Ta’amu’s backup.

BONUS- Philadelphia Eagles - Tyree Jackson

Though technically not a QB anymore Tyree Jackson was Cardale Jones’s back up for the DC Defenders in 2020. After failing to get picked up during the 2020 season, Jackson would get signed by the Eagles as tight end and would catch his first touchdown in Week 18 of 2021, before tearing his ACL later that game.