Top XFL Players Still Available For NFL Teams

After the XFL season came to an abrupt end, every player in the league was up for grabs.

Since their contracts were terminated on March 23rd, 45 XFL players have signed to the NFL or CFL teams. Fans have seen stars like P.J. Walker, Jordan Ta’amu, and Storm Norton land deals in the NFL. Plenty of other players like Austin Proehl and Jeff Badet are getting tryouts to NFL teams.

While there are players who didn’t get the same opportunities as those guys, the league should be in a good position to bring a lot of players back. There is still plenty of talent available that the XFL will have no trouble bringing back.

Top XFL Players Available

Cam Phillips, Wide Receiver, Houston Roughnecks

The biggest question among XFL fans has many wondering why Cam Phillips is still a free agent. Some might argue that Phillips was the MVP of the XFL after his amazing five-game run last season. He led the league in catches (31), yards (455), and touchdowns (9).

Phillips displayed great speed with playmaking abilities. Every game, the league saw Phillips make play after play. He also showed great route running with strong hands. Not many receivers could even be on the same level as Phillips.

The Cincinnati Bengals and Miami Dolphins were originally interested in Phillips in the offseason. It doesn’t appear he will be on an NFL team this season. This would be good news for the XFL. It’s more than likely that the league would ask Phillips to come back and reclaim his magic from the 2020 season.

Josh Johnson, Quarterback, LA Wildcats

Pro Football Focus had Josh Johnson graded as the number one quarterback in the XFL. P.J. Walker would have an argument about that, but there’s no denying how good Johnson played. He was second in the league in passing yards (1076) and passing touchdowns (11). Johnson did lead the league in passer rating (106.3).

Age doesn’t seem to be a factor for Johnson who turned 34 in May. He has still showed great decision making and arm strength. While the XFL didn’t see much of it, Johnson showed great foot work and can use his mobility to get out of trouble.

The league has already lost two of their star quarterbacks. Good quarterback play is hard to find for spring football leagues. The XFL had plenty of it and Johnson was a shining example. It would be a surprise if the league didn’t reach out to Johnson to bring him back.

Rahim Moore, Safety, DC Defenders

Rahim Moore was the only player in the XFL graded over 90 according to Pro Football Focus. Moore recorded 15 tackles, two interceptions, and four pass deflections during his time with the Defenders. The stats won’t wow people, but his play on the field should.

He was the exact type of leader the defense needed and led the best secondary in the XFL. Moore proved to be a playmaker who disrupted team’s passing game. His veteran leadership he got from the NFL payed off in the XFL.

It was surprising to not see an NFL team pick up Moore after two successful seasons in spring football. He proved to still be a good player who can play the role player well in the NFL. Bringing back a playmaker like Moore is something the league should consider for next season.

Steven Johnson, Linebacker, Seattle Dragons

Another spring football veteran who was as good as advertised. Steven Johnson led the XFL in tackles (48) and tackles for loss (6). There may not be a team that depended on a player more than Seattle did with Johnson. He made a strong case for defensive player of the year.

A smart and instinctive defensive player, Johnson could make any tackle at any time. His high motor pushed him to be everywhere on the field. He’s arguably the best run stopper in the XFL at the linebacker position. Johnson was no slouch in coverage as he could cover running backs and tight ends well.

It’s become common for Johnson to be overlooked by NFL teams after playing six seasons in the NFL. The XFL should not follow their lead on that subject. Johnson makes for a great leader and mentor for younger players. He’s a prime example of what an XFL player is: hungry to continue playing the game he loves.