Following an electrifying season in the United States Football League (USFL), former Clemson Tiger and Birmingham Stallions wide receiver Deon Cain is on his way back to the National Football League (NFL). Fresh off a triumphant USFL Championship victory, Cain’s contract with the Stallions has been terminated to facilitate his return to the NFL, highlighting his exceptional performance in the alternate league.
Born in Tampa, Florida, Cain began his collegiate career at Clemson, where he amassed 2,040 yards and 20 touchdowns over 42 games, 14 of which he started. His performance during the 2015-2017 seasons earned him a spot in the 2018 NFL Draft where he was picked in the sixth round by the Indianapolis Colts. After a stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2020, where he recorded nine receptions for 124 yards, Cain found himself charting a new path in the USFL with the Birmingham Stallions.
In the USFL, Cain quickly made a name for himself. His contributions were instrumental in propelling the Stallions to the USFL Championship. His championship game performance was exceptional, earning him the coveted MVP honors. He posted a league-record three touchdowns and four catches for 70 yards. This game-changing performance undoubtedly played a part in paving his way back to the NFL.
As of yet, the specific NFL team Cain will join remains undisclosed. However, given his impressive trajectory from Clemson to the USFL and now back to the NFL, there’s no question that whichever team he joins will be gaining a dedicated and talented athlete.
His journey serves as a testament to the potential of alternative football leagues such as the USFL in providing a platform for athletes to showcase their skills and earn opportunities in the NFL. As players like Cain continue to excel and transition back into the NFL, it will be interesting to see how this dynamic continues to shape the landscape of American football.
