
In an exciting development for the XFL, two more of its standout players have made the transition to the NFL. Chris Blair, the dynamic wide receiver from the D.C. Defenders, has signed a contract with the Atlanta Falcons, while San Antonio Brahmas’ formidable defensive lineman Kobe Smith has penned a deal with the New York Giants.
This brings the tally of XFL players who have earned NFL contracts this year to 29, nine of whom have earned the coveted All-XFL Team honors.
The XFL, which has branded itself as “the league of opportunity,” is certainly living up to its mantra. Since the conclusion of its regular season, 108 XFL players have been invited to NFL camps or have held individual workouts with NFL teams. This is a significant milestone for the league, which aims to offer a platform for players to showcase their skills and potentially move on to the NFL.
The official signing period began on May 15, with XFL players able to enter into contracts with NFL teams. The terms of the contracts ensure that should the players opt to return to the XFL in the future, they would resume playing for their former teams.
Chris Blair’s signing with the Atlanta Falcons is particularly noteworthy. As a wide receiver for the D.C. Defenders, his impressive catches and agility on the field caught the attention of NFL scouts. The Falcons are likely expecting him to bring the same level of energy and versatility to their offensive line-up.
On the other hand, Kobe Smith is a force to be reckoned with on the defensive line. His signing with the New York Giants reflects the team’s dedication to bolstering their defense. Smith’s prowess in disrupting offenses and his ability to make plays in the backfield made him an attractive asset for the Giants.
As we look ahead to the 2024 season and beyond, the XFL remains committed to its mission of being a springboard for players aspiring to compete in the NFL. The league continues to gain traction as an alternative pathway for talented players looking for opportunities to excel at a higher level.
XFL Players Who Signed NFL Contracts
Team | Name | NFL Team | Position | Date |
---|---|---|---|---|
San Antonio Brahmas | Kobe Smith | New York Giants | DL | 6/16/23 |
D.C. Defenders | Chris Blair | Atlanta Falcons | WR | 6/16/23 |
St Louis Battlehawks | Marcell Ateman | Buffalo Bills | WR | 6/1/23 |
St Louis Battlehawks | Darrius Shepherd | Los Angeles Chargers | WR | 6/1/23 |
Vegas Vipers | Brandon Dillon | Washington Commanders | TE | 5/30/23 |
D.C. Defenders | Lucky Jackson | Minnesota Vikings | WR | 5/23/23 |
D.C. Defenders | Ferrod Gardner | Washington Commanders | LB | 5/22/23 |
San Antonio Brahmas | Alizé Mack | Tennessee Titans | TE | 5/17/23 |
Arlington Renegades | Willie Taylor | Jacksonville Jaguars | LB | 5/17/23 |
D.C. Defenders | Daniel Whelan | Green Bay Packers | PT | 5/17/23 |
Orlando Guardians | Charleston Rambo | Philadelphia Eagles | WR | 5/16/23 |
San Antonio Brahmas | Jacques Patrick | Denver Broncos | RB | 5/16/23 |
San Antonio Brahmas | Luq Barcoo | Pittsburgh Steelers | CB | 5/16/23 |
St Louis Battlehawks | Hakeem Butler | Pittsburgh Steelers | WR | 5/16/23 |
St Louis Battlehawks | Jaryd Jones-Smith | Washington Commanders | T | 5/16/23 |
St Louis Battlehawks | Gary Jennings | Carolina Panthers | WR | 5/16/23 |
Orlando Guardians | Jordan Thomas | Carolina Panthers | TE | 5/16/23 |
Houston Roughnecks | Jack Heflin | New Orleans Saints | DL | 5/15/23 |
Seattle Sea Dragons | Antwuan Jackson | Carolina Panthers | DL | 5/15/23 |
Seattle Sea Dragons | Niko Lalos | New Orleans Saints | LB | 5/15/23 |
Houston Roughnecks | C.J. Brewer | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | DL | 5/15/23 |
San Antonio Brahmas | John Parker Romo | Detroit Lions | K | 5/15/23 |
Seattle Sea Dragons | Barry Wesley | Atlanta Falcons | T | 5/15/23 |
Seattle Sea Dragons | Ben DiNucci | Denver Broncos | QB | 5/15/23 |
Seattle Sea Dragons | Austin Faoliu | Seattle Seahawks | DE | 5/15/23 |
Seattle Sea Dragons | Bryce Thompson | Miami Dolphins | S | 5/15/23 |
St Louis Battlehawks | LaCale London | Atlanta Falcons | DL | 5/15/23 |
St Louis Battlehawks | Lukas Denis | Atlanta Falcons | S | 5/15/23 |
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Mark Perry, a passionate sports journalist and the founder and editor of XFL News Hub, has been at the forefront of covering the XFL since its revival in 2018. Within days of the XFL's announced return, Mark initiated XFL News Hub to keep the fans abreast of every detail, game, and development of the league. Mark's extensive knowledge of the sport, combined with his unwavering dedication to providing comprehensive and accurate reporting, has made XFL News Hub the go-to platform for all things related to the XFL. His work over the years has brought him recognition in the world of sports journalism, solidifying his place as a leading voice in XFL coverage. Beyond just reporting, Mark believes in fostering a community around the XFL, engaging fans through his innovative content and discussions. If you have any inquiries, comments, or insights you'd like to share, Mark welcomes you to contact him directly at mark.perry@xflnewshub.com.

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