Hopefully 3rd times the charm for the infamous QB Ben Holmes as after being released by the Generals and Alouettes, the former number 4 overall pick of the 2022 USFL draft has now joined the depleted QB room of the Edmonton Elks. Holmes is noted for being the first USFL player to be released and the first USFL QB to “lose” his starting job.

Holmes came to the professional football by way of the D-II school Tarleton State where he put led the Texans to a 23-2 record. In two seasons he threw for almost 6,000 yards 62 Touchdowns and 9 Ints. Holmes would then transition to the Arizona Rattlers of the IFL where he played sparingly throwing only 6 passes for a total of 13 yards and no touchdowns. Holmes would then transition to The Spring League, where ironically, he backed up his Generals teammate De’Andre Johnson for the TSL Sea Lions.

Holmes would not find much success in the Spring League as well as he would throw for 219 yards and 2 Ints. Holmes did manage to find himself late as the Number 4 overall pick in the 2022 USFL draft as the Orchard Park Native, was set to lead the New Jersey Generals to greatness. Unfortunately, a freak accident would inhibit Holmes from doing any such thing. Holmes would break part of his right foot, specifically his pinky toe. The limited roster spot, and Holmes ineffectiveness during practice (as seen in United by Football) prompted the signing of Alt-Football League Legend Luis Perez. Perez and company would lead the Generals to a Northern Division Championship while Holmes would go to his 4th pro football league by joining the CFL’s Montreal Alouettes.

Despite being the odd man out in Montreal, Holmes managed to put together a decent performance in his lone opportunity. He would go 6/7 for 38 yards and show decent movement in his limited opportunity, however it would not be enough as Holmes would be released before the beginning of the regular season. Despite his release Holmes remained on the CFL radar and after a series of ineffectiveness and injuries by the Edmonton Elks Holmes would get another chance being signed to their practice roster on July 17th.

Holmes has been given another chance to extend his pro-football career it appears, as his recent auditions have been less than stellar. With the Back-Up QB situation seemingly less than stable in Edmonton, Holmes could find himself behind center if another injury arises or former XFL legend Taylor Cornelius is less than effective. Regardless, Holmes career so far has had some ups and downs and right now with all things considered, he’s in a position most athletes would dream to be in. Hopefully, for Holmes this time he’s able to find some stability in his career.

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