The USFL Players That Might Sign With NFL Teams In The Near Future
The USFL Players That Might Sign With NFL Teams In The Near Future: The major similarity between these two leagues is that many USFL-NFL players made the move in the 1980s. Most prominently, Reggie White became a superstar NFL player, Steve Young followed in his footsteps and these players continue to play today with over 50 of them being on NFL rosters.
The goal for the current NFL is to catch up with the successes of the USFL. Former NFL star and current USFL VP of Football Operations, Daryl Johnston states that as a result, old school football became about quantity over quality.
Johnston told CBS Sports this week that he is very grateful for the team’s players and coaches, saying they have exceeded his expectations. He mentioned a couple of players he was surprised hadn’t been invited to a camp by now.
One player who may find NFL success is Houston Gamblers running back Mark Thompson, among the USFL’s leaders for rushing yards, touchdown runs and all-purpose yards. While he is aware that the NFL has strayed away from classic power backs, Johnston believes Thompson’s skillset would fit at least several teams in the NFL.
Jones said that “Mark” would be a great fit. He described him as an “Edrick Henry-like” guy. … Jones suggested that he’s ideally 6-foot-3 and 235 pounds–which gives Mark the ability to outrun people.
Johnston feels that USFL players like Thompson will have opportunities to join an NFL team in the coming weeks, most likely in the positions that continue to suffer injuries.
A great opportunity to jump in training camp has been given to those who are ready and in football shape. It is meant to be a developmental experience that they get, which would not be possible without the current UCF staff.
The players and coaches attribute the success of the USFL to a successful schedule that let many prospects get on NFL rosters. They played 10 games in a regular season with a two-week playoff format.
Johnston said that even if you miss the championship, you still have time to let your body recover and get into football shape. Even by missing the championship, it doesn’t change that physically you’re ready for football.
USFL was successful in their inaugural season which culminated with the USFL Championship on December 28, 1984. It was an unprecedented feat as they became the first spring league in over 20 years to complete a ‘spring’ season.
USFL Senior Vice President of Marketing Nick Johnston feels that the USFL’s success came in its partnership with the NFL. This season, games across the NFL will be filled with former USFL players.
Commissioner Rufus Johnston said that the XFL had not been able to compete with NFL, and therefore, wanted to do something different. They want to be a stand-alone professional football league and provide an alternative route to the NFL.