UFL to NFL: The Next Chapter

As the dust settles on the UFL’s inaugural season, the league’s top talent is making the jump to the NFL. The Birmingham Stallions may have taken home the championship title, but it’s the players who are the real winners. With NFL teams clamoring for their services, the UFL’s brightest stars are getting their shot at the big time.

Giants Land All-UFL Running Back

The New York Giants have snagged former St. Louis Battlehawks running back Jacob Saylors, according to his agent. Saylors was a force to be reckoned with in the UFL, racking up 460 rushing yards and five touchdowns on the ground, while also hauling in 23 receptions for 151 yards and three scores through the air. The Giants are getting a talented player who can make an impact in multiple facets of the game.

The Giants are looking to bolster their backfield with the addition of Jacob Saylors.

Lions Land Top Kicker

The Detroit Lions have signed kicker Jake Bates to a two-year deal, his agent confirmed to ESPN. Bates was a standout in the UFL, converting 21 of 28 field goal attempts, including a 64-yarder and two other 60-yarders. The Lions are getting a reliable leg who can provide a spark to their special teams unit.

Jake Bates is bringing his strong leg to the Motor City.

Cowboys Add Leading Tackler

The Dallas Cowboys have signed linebacker Willie Harvey Jr., who led the UFL in tackles with 76. Harvey was a tackling machine, also leading all linebackers in tackles for loss (9), passes defended (6), and forced fumbles (2). The Cowboys are getting a defensive playmaker who can make an instant impact.

Willie Harvey Jr. is taking his tackling prowess to Big D.

Panthers Snag All-UFL Receiver

The Carolina Panthers have signed wide receiver Daewood Davis, who caught 41 passes for 446 yards and five touchdowns for the Memphis Showboats. Davis spent last offseason with the Miami Dolphins before suffering a scary injury that led to him being waived with an injury settlement. The Panthers are getting a talented receiver who can stretch the field.

Daewood Davis is looking to make a fresh start in Carolina.

Vikings Add Defensive Tackle

The Minnesota Vikings have signed defensive tackle Jalen Redmond, who recorded 18 tackles, five tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks in just four games for the Arlington Renegades. Redmond is a dominant force in the trenches who can help bolster the Vikings’ defensive line.

Jalen Redmond is bringing his pass-rushing skills to the Twin Cities.

Patriots Sign Offensive Lineman

The New England Patriots have signed offensive lineman Liam Fornadel, who played his college ball at James Madison. Fornadel has experience playing both guard and tackle, and the Patriots are getting a versatile lineman who can provide depth to their O-line.

Liam Fornadel is looking to make an impact in Foxborough.

Falcons Add Veteran Lineman

The Atlanta Falcons have signed offensive lineman Jaryd Jones-Smith, who made All-UFL for the Battlehawks. Jones-Smith has spent time with numerous NFL teams, including the Texans, Dolphins, 49ers, Raiders, Ravens, and Washington Commanders. The Falcons are getting a veteran lineman who can provide leadership and experience to their O-line.

Jaryd Jones-Smith is looking to bring his experience to the Falcons’ O-line.

The UFL may be over, but its impact will be felt in the NFL for years to come. As these talented players make the jump to the next level, they’ll be looking to make a name for themselves and prove that they belong in the big leagues.