The XFL, a professional football league founded by Vince McMahon, has been making headlines since its launch in 2020. Closure due to COVID, then its return in 2023 under Dwyane ‘The Rock’ Johnson, Dany Garcia and RedBird Capital Partners.
With teams located in major cities across the United States and a focus on fast-paced, high-energy gameplay, the XFL has quickly become a fan favorite among football enthusiasts.
One question that many people have been asking is whether XFL players can go on to play in the NFL. The short answer is yes, but it’s not quite as simple as it might seem.
The XFL and the NFL
The XFL is not affiliated with the NFL 100%, which means that it operates independently of the larger league. They do have a partnership when it comes to sharing player data and testing of rules. The NFL Alumni Academy partnership is different from their partnership with the NFL.
While the XFL does not have the same level of talent or resources as the NFL, it has still managed to attract some talented players, many of whom have played in the NFL before.
In fact, the XFL has already sent several players to the NFL, including P.J. Walker, a quarterback for the Houston Roughnecks, who was signed by the Carolina Panthers in March 2020 who is now with the Chicago Bears. Other XFL players, including Storm Norton, Donald Parham, and Dravon Askew-Henry, have also signed with NFL teams after the 2020 season closed.
Once the XFL season is over, players can sign on with any NFL team. During the season they have signed a one year contact to stay in the XFL for the duration of the season.
How XFL Players Can Join the NFL
While the XFL may not have the same level of prestige as the NFL, it can still serve as a launching pad for players who want to play in the larger league. There are several ways that XFL players can catch the eye of NFL scouts and teams:
- Perform Well in the XFL: One of the best ways for XFL players to get noticed by the NFL is to perform well in the XFL. NFL scouts and teams are always on the lookout for talented players who can make an impact on the field, and a strong showing in the XFL can help players stand out from the crowd.
- Attend XFL Showcases: The XFL holds showcases every year, where players can showcase their skills in front of scouts and teams. XFL players who want to join the NFL can attend these showcases and try to impress scouts with their speed, agility, and football IQ. A spot in the XFL is the first step to making the NFL
- Get a Tryout with an NFL Team: XFL players who catch the eye of NFL scouts may be invited to try out for a team. This can be a great opportunity for players to showcase their skills and potentially earn a spot on an NFL roster.
- Build Relationships with NFL Teams: XFL players can also build relationships with NFL teams and scouts by attending events, networking with other players and coaches, and staying in touch with teams that have expressed interest in them.
While the XFL is not affiliated with the NFL, it can still serve as a stepping stone for players who want to play at the highest level of professional football. By performing well in the XFL, attending NFL combines, getting tryouts with NFL teams, and building relationships with scouts and teams, XFL players can increase their chances of joining the NFL and pursuing their dreams of playing football at the highest level.
