In 2020, the XFL reboot captivated audiences with its fresh take on football, promising a talent pool eager to prove themselves on a national stage. While the league’s lifespan was brief and returned in 2023, some of its athletes from 2020 have demonstrated remarkable staying power in the NFL.
Let’s dive into the stories of the remaining XFL 2020 players still making an impact in the league.
The Tenacious Five
As of now, five players from the 2020 XFL season continue to prove their mettle in the NFL:
- QB Taylor Heinicke (Falcons)
- TE Donald Parham (Chargers)
- S Elijah Campbell (Dolphins)
- LS Christian Kuntz (Steelers)
- LS Scott Daly (Lions)
2023 NFL Cuts
Before we delve deeper, let’s acknowledge some notable absences. P.J. Walker, the Roughnecks MVPJ QB, was recently cut by the Chicago Bears, while Safety Kenny Robinson from the St. Louis Battlehawks faced a similar fate with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Their departures show just how fickle the journey from the XFL to the NFL can be.
Stat Spotlight: Taylor Heinicke
Taylor Heinicke, once with the XFL’s St. Louis Battlehawks as the backup to Jordan Ta’Amu, has been a revelation for the Washington Commanders. His 2022 stats are commendable, with a 62.2% completion rate, 1,859 passing yards, 12 touchdowns, 6 interceptions, and an 89.6 passer rating. Heinicke has certainly made his presence felt as a capable signal-caller. He has signed a new deal with the Atlanta Falcons.
Stat Spotlight: Donald Parham
Donald Parham, the towering tight end for the Chargers, also has impressive numbers. In the 2022 season, he registered 10 receptions, 130 receiving yards, and a touchdown. With an average of 13.0 yards per reception, Parham offers a deep threat that few tight ends can match.
XFL’s Lasting Impact
These athletes not only demonstrate the caliber of talent that the XFL housed but also embody the league’s never-die attitude. Their resilience and adaptability underscore the XFL’s impact on their professional careers, making the league’s contribution to football undeniable.
While the XFL’s future remains a subject of speculation, its legacy continues to shine through these persistent athletes. They are living proof that the league offered a legitimate pathway to the NFL—a stepping stone for athletes willing to give it their all.
