The United States Football League (USFL) is set to make its comeback in the spring of 2022 after more than three decades. The league was first established in 1983 and lasted three seasons before folding in 1986.
There’s a fine line to be drawn when it comes to former NFL stars playing in the league. Obviously, they’re going to attract immediate attention, but the last thing the USFL wants is for fans to assume it’s just a league for “washed” players.
These five players have either signed or have at least signaled an intention to play this year, and there’s no doubt that these would be mega-stories if they can light it up:
Johnny Manziel
Johnny Manziel, also known as “Johnny Football,” is a former NFL quarterback who was a first-round draft pick in 2014. However, his NFL career was short-lived due to off-the-field issues.
He’s been out of football since 2019 and is looking to make a comeback with the USFL. He has signed with the league and will play for the Zappers, one of the eight teams in the USFL.
Manziel’s talent on the field is undeniable, and he could be a game-changer for the Zappers.
Trent Richardson
Trent Richardson is a former NFL running back who was a first-round draft pick in 2012. He played for the Cleveland Browns, Indianapolis Colts, and Oakland Raiders before his NFL career came to an end in 2016.
He’s been out of football since then but has been working hard to get back in shape for the USFL. Richardson has signed with the Birmingham Stallions, one of the eight teams in the league.
His power-running style could be a major asset for the Stallions.
Michael Vick
Michael Vick is a former NFL quarterback who played for the Atlanta Falcons, Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
He was one of the most exciting players in the NFL during his prime, known for his electrifying runs and a strong arm. Vick retired from the NFL in 2017 and has since been working as a TV analyst.
He has expressed interest in playing in the USFL and could be a major draw for the league.
Terrell Owens
Terrell Owens is a former NFL wide receiver who played for the San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, Buffalo Bills, and Cincinnati Bengals. He was one of the most productive receivers in NFL history, with over 15,000 receiving yards and 153 touchdowns.
Owens has been out of football since 2010 but has expressed interest in playing in the USFL. Any team that signs him will make the headlines for sure, but the Vegas Odds of him doing anything meaningful have to be small at this stage.
Vince Young
Vince Young is a former NFL quarterback who played for the Tennessee Titans, Philadelphia Eagles, Buffalo Bills, and Green Bay Packers. He was a first-round draft pick in 2006 and had a promising start to his NFL career, but it was derailed by injuries and off-the-field issues.
He retired from the NFL in 2014 and has since been working as a motivational speaker. Young has signed with the USFL and will be playing for the Houston Gamblers, one of the eight teams in the league. Y
Young’s athleticism and arm strength could make him a top quarterback in the USFL.
In conclusion, the return of the USFL is an exciting development for football fans, and the league has some of the biggest names in football history.
These former NFL players could be the key to the success of the league, and fans will be eagerly watching to see how they perform on the field.
