The San Francisco 49ers, known for their scouting prowess even in niche leagues, are making headlines again. The team has signed former USFL standout Kyahva Tezino, adding depth to their roster, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Tezino, a linebacker, has left a mark on the USFL with his remarkable performances. Last playing for the Pittsburgh Maulers, he earned All-USFL honors, becoming one of the league’s top linebackers. His record in the USFL is impressive, having racked up 94 tackles, nine tackles for loss, two interceptions, two forced fumbles, three recovered fumbles, and six pass deflections in the 2023 season alone. These stats speak volumes about his consistent impact on the field.
Beyond these impressive statistics, Tezino’s role as a leader is noteworthy. Under the guidance of Jarren Horton, the Maulers boasted one of the top defensive units in the USFL. With Tezino at the helm, Pittsburgh’s relevance in the league grew, culminating in a Championship berth.
Although they fell short in the final to Birmingham, Tezino’s performance did not wane. He posted a modern USFL record of 13 tackles in the Championship game.
This isn’t Tezino’s first rodeo, having played for Pittsburgh in the league’s inaugural season, where he gathered an impressive 86 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and an interception. After these two powerful USFL seasons, Tezino is now set to pursue his NFL dream with the 49ers.
This move to the 49ers isn’t just a triumph for Tezino but also for the USFL. He is the 11th USFL player to transition to the NFL this offseason, a testament to the national exposure and platform the USFL provides to talented players. It’s clear that Tezino’s NFL journey is only just beginning, and it’ll be fascinating to watch him in the red and gold of the San Francisco 49ers.
