First-year UFL players earning second chances in the NFL

For many players, the journey to the NFL doesn’t end with the draft or the final round of training camp cuts. The 2026 season showed that the United Football League has become one of the fastest routes back to an NFL roster, with 13 first-year UFL players earning contracts after their debut spring campaigns.

A proving ground

The numbers tell an impressive story. More than 60 players suited up for their first UFL season this year, and 13 of them have already been rewarded with NFL opportunities.

Instead of waiting months for another chance, those players stayed on the field, competing against professional talent while giving NFL scouts recent game film to evaluate. That combination of live reps and football-ready conditioning has made the UFL an increasingly attractive source of talent.

Opportunities across the league

The first-year players signing NFL deals came from every corner of the UFL and nearly every position group.

Tony Fields II (Chicago Bears), Chris Glaser (Pittsburgh Steelers), Tay Martin (Detroit Lions), Antwane Wells and Keyshawn Banks (Atlanta Falcons), Erik Ezukanma (Philadelphia Eagles), Major Burns and Gottlieb Ayedze (Miami Dolphins), Jalen Moreno-Cropper and Tanner Brown (New Orleans Saints), Ian Wheeler (Buffalo Bills), Tarik Black (Detroit Lions) and Sean Fresch (Denver Broncos) all turned one UFL season into another NFL opportunity.

Some had previous NFL experience, while others were still searching for their first chance to stick on an active roster. Regardless of their backgrounds, each used the spring season to put together fresh tape against professional competition.

Building momentum

The growing number of first-year UFL players signing with NFL teams reinforces the league’s role as more than just an alternative spring competition. It has become a place where players can develop, rebuild their careers and stay visible to NFL decision-makers.

For players whose football careers seemed to be at a crossroads just a few months ago, one season in the UFL has already opened the door to another shot at the game’s highest level.