The USFL has proven to be more than just a side show—it’s a legitimate pipeline for NFL talent. As of the latest data, 12 USFL athletes have successfully landed on NFL practice squads for the upcoming 2023 season. 2 USFL players made the 53 man roster.
Overview: USFL to NFL Transition
During the offseason, a total of 39 USFL players tried their luck in the NFL. Out of these, 14 players have solidified their position either in the 53-man roster or in the practice squads.
Players by Position:
Quarterbacks
QB Alex McGough | Green Bay Packers
Former Birmingham Stallion and USFL MVP Alex McGough has been placed in the Green Bay Packers’ practice squad as QB3, following a short-lived spot on the 53-man roster.
Wide Receivers
WR Austin Watkins | Cleveland Browns
Birmingham Stallions Austin Watkins showed enough during the preseason with the Cleveland Browns to earn a spot on their practice squad.
WR D.J. Montgomery | Indianapolis Colts
Panthers Montgomery made a significant impact during the preseason with the Colts, landing him on their practice squad.
WR Kaden Davis | Arizona Cardinals
Davis, a mid-season addition to the USFL’s Michigan Panthers, impressed enough during the preseason to find a home on the Cardinals’ practice squad.
WR Devin Ross | Las Vegas Raiders
Despite an injury-plagued season with the Michigan Panthers, Ross showcased his talent in a workout with the Raiders and was signed to their practice squad.
Defensive Tackles
DT Khalil Davis | Houston Texans
Birmingham Stallions Davis secured his place on the Houston Texans’ practice squad following a strong preseason performance that included multiple tackles and a sack.
Defensive Ends
DE Levi Bell | Seattle Seahawks
Panthers Levi Bell’s consistent improvement has paid off, earning him a spot on the Seattle Seahawks’ practice squad.
Tight Ends
TE Josh Pederson | Jacksonville Jaguars
Gamblers Josh Pederson has joined the Jaguars’ practice squad, displaying a versatile skill set that includes both effective route running and blocking. He is also the son of the head coach.
Defensive Backs
DB Lorenzo Burns | Cleveland Browns
Burns joins Austin Watkins on the Cleveland Browns practice squad, both marking successful transitions from the USFL’s Birmingham Stallions.
DB Matt Hankins | Los Angeles Chargers
Former Iowa standout and Birmingham Stallions Hankins has secured a spot on the Los Angeles Chargers’ practice squad after an impactful preseason.
DB Nehemiah Shelton | New York Jets
Memphis Showboats Shelton’s limited but effective snaps during the preseason with the New York Jets earned him a place on their practice squad.
DB Josh Butler | Dallas Cowboys
After overcoming multiple career setbacks, Michigan Panthers Butler has found his footing and secured a spot on the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad.
This year’s NFL season could very well be a defining moment for these 12 athletes and a testament to the USFL’s effectiveness as a talent feeder to the NFL. Keep an eye on them as they seek to make their mark.
