The Philadelphia Stars continue to sign players preparing for whatever is coming in 2024. With so much uncertainty it’s almost hard to evaluate these signings. Will these players suit up for the Stars, the USFL, the XFL, or not at all? 

At this rate it appears no one really knows what is going on. Least of all the players and fans. With all that in mind let’s just look at the players that were signed and not worry about the circumstances they’re signing under. 

Stars Sign Second Draft Pick This Offseason

Previously this offseason defensive end Trey Botts was signed after being selected during the 2023 USFL draft. He went on to take his NFL chances with the Ravens before coming to the USFL. Now the USFL has lured another of their draft picks into the fold. Destin Mack is a versatile defensive back, depending where you look he is listed as a cornerback or a free safety. 

In reality if he plays for the Stars, their scheme calls for physical defensive backs capable of playing press on receivers. Strength might take a slight edge over speed with this style of play, and Mack certainly fits that bill. Running a 4.60 at his pro-day, with a 1.55 10-yard split and 16 reps in the bench press. Mack is the perfect cast member to play cornerback in this play, assuming the curtains don’t close before he sees the field. 

Wiley Vet 

LaDarius Wiley has re-signed with the USFL heading into the 2024 season. Wiley has been a solid contributor through two seasons. His contract expired following the 2023 season. Wiley is a spring football veteran having gotten his first taste in just his second season as a pro. 

After spending time with the Titans in 2019, he wound up a free agent looking for his next opportunity before the 2020 NFL season. He opted to head to the XFL, and ended up with the Los Angeles Wildcats where he played in all five games with one start. He collected 20 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 interception in five games. He didn’t initially see NFL interest but signed with the Panthers in 2021. 

By 2022 he found himself looking for another home, and opted to enter the USFL. He has gone on to be a valuable contributor for the Stars. Over two seasons he managed 89 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 1 sack. This brings him up to career totals of 109 tackles, 2 sacks, 3 interceptions. Not bad for only 25 games. 

Final Thoughts

The one takeaway here is no matter where these two men end up playing they will likely be valuable contributors on their next team. Both players are NFL caliber players who simply haven’t gotten the right opportunity in the league yet. With both players under 28, their NFL windows are still wide open for 2024.