With more news breaking about FCF Players getting XFL draft Invites it’s become apparent that the Fan Controlled Football League has quickly developed into one of the best platforms for young players. Over its brief existence, the Fan Controlled Football League has employed names such as Johnny Manziel, Josh Gordon, Terrence Williams, Rashad Jennings, Deestroying, Kavontae Turpin, and of course Terrell Owens. This mix of undiscovered talent and former NFL players, as well as their innovative gameplay, and unrivaled fan interaction has created an unprecedented phenomenon. A successful startup spring football league that stands apart from the rest.
Invites by Position Group
The quarterback position in particular has gotten a lot of love from the XFL. Names like Mitch Kidd, Deondre François, and Kelly Bryant all have received an XFL Draft invite. This may not have been the original plan for the Fan Controlled Football League, but this bodes very well for their ability to attract top-level free-agent talent in 2023 and beyond. When players see their peers getting opportunities at the highest level following a stint in your league, it only makes sense that they’ll be attracted to what you have to offer.
Also in the draft pool
Brian Allen who spent time with the Zappers this past season. Allen is not a quarterback to be slept on. His resume may now match some of the others on this list, but he is every bit as physically talented as the others. He was invited to the draft class after the showcase circuit for a reason.
Running Back
The interest does not stop at the quarterback position by any stretch. One of my favorite players from FCF Season 2.0, was RB Brycen Alleyne. Alleyne led the league in rushing yards and scored 8 times for his Glacier Boyz Squad. Alleyne is a dual-threat back that can aid an outdoor team in many ways. Whether that be in the run game, as a receiver, or as a return man he is dangerous in space. An NFL talent who slipped through the cracks. “Alleyne Cuisine” is on the menu for the XFL Draft.
Another runner who is fairly similar to Alleyne in terms of running style is Ladarius Galloway. Galloway has played in the FCF, CFL, and IFL which means the film is out there for coaches to see. Galloway eventually won a championship in season 1.0 with the Wild Aces putting up over 260 all-purpose yards.
Wide Receiver
Wide Receiver has seen its fair share of invites as well. Given the success of Kavontae Turpin following his stay with the FCF in season one, it’s no surprise to see more names getting looks. Two names that were a foregone conclusion were Terrance Williams and Martavis Bryant. Two men with NFL ties that fell out of the league but are still very much in the prime of their careers athletically speaking.
Andrew Jamiel is another FCF product getting extensive looks. He worked out with the Patriots this offseason and was invited to the XFL draft. Another fan favorite “The Doctor” is in…the draft pool that is. Lamarcus Caradine has received an invite. Harrison Dreher is another wideout getting consideration from the XFL.
Tight End
Tight End is a hard position to stand out at when it comes to indoor football. That didn’t stop All FCF TE Tommy Auger from getting an XFL Draft Invite. Auger is one of those guys that can do it all. The former high school receiver has made the transition to tight end early in college and since cemented his career at the position in the pros. That won’t stop him from splitting out wide, lining up in the slot, in-line, or in the backfield. You might even see him long snapping a skill he didn’t get a chance to work on in the FCF but still holds in his back pocket.
Offensive Lineman
Jonathan Irizarry was a spectacular offensive lineman for the FCF in season 2.0. He was a rookie who was eligible for the 2022 NFL Draft and went unselected. Now he is receiving interest from the XFL for season 2.0 of his career. He is one of the more likely names on this list to be called due to playing in a position group that is lacking much top-end talent outside of the NFL, CFL, and USFL. At 6’4 328 pounds the 24 year old rookie caught a pass in the FCF for a 12 yard touchdown. Coaches might want to keep that in mind, maybe he doesn’t find a starting job right away, and finds a role as a 6th offensive lineman, and comes in on tackle eligible plays. There is a lot of value in this role as well.
Defensive Players
Cecil Cherry or the man known as Scary Cherry to FCF fans showcased unrivaled versatility in season 2.0. He played linebacker primarily but in some situations was seen lining up at the defensive end. As if that wasn’t enough he was caught on camera running step for step with wideouts in coverage. Anytime a linebacker is affiliated with Ray Lewis…you might want to take notice. This is an ironic connection because when you watch Cecil Cherry play, he reminds you of the aforementioned Lewis in his heyday with the Ravens. If Cherry wasn’t on the top of the list of linebackers for the XFL, Winning FCF Defensive Player of the Year has to help his case. This man’s tenacity alone makes him a near lock to hear his name called on draft day.
Qwan’tez Stiggers was the youngest player in the FCF last season. Playing at just 20 years old after opting to begin his professional career early, Stiggers has now been invited to the XFL draft. This can only be seen as a win for the FCF. Stiggers was a guy who around a year ago struggled to find a college to take him.
Now after one season with the FCF, the XFL has taken notice and Stiggers could be poised to make football a full-time endeavor when selected. If he can do that, this 21-year-old could be the breakout player in the XFL in 2023. Stiggers also happens to be one of the rare shut down cornerbacks left on the open market. I was slightly surprised that the USFL didn’t attempt to make a move to get Stiggers. His big play ability alone is worth bringing in for a spring football team.
If you’re an FCF player who has an XFL Draft Invite, and I missed you on this list….Let me Know!! I will absolutely do an update article adding anyone I may have missed.
