Article by: Drayten Nobles, Contributing Writer

On March 27, 2026, the UFL kicked off with only its third season, and fans are excited. With action expected all season long, some familiar faces have returned, hoping to make a name for themselves and help lead their teams to a UFL championship.

What is the UFL?

The UFL is a spring football league that was created in 2024, following the merger of the XFL and USFL. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is one of the owners of the league and has stated that the UFL is a “league of opportunity” for players to develop and showcase their skills so that they may be given a shot at the NFL. The league consists of eight teams that are separated into two conferences, with each team playing on a ten-week schedule. 

Some notable stars who have left the UFL for the NFL include Lions kicker Jake Bates and Vikings defensive tackle Jalen Redmond.

Familiar Faces

The UFL has always been home to many former college football stars who didn’t quite reach or pan out in the NFL. This year is no different, with many former stars taking on newer and bigger roles to show off their talents and possibly make the NFL. 

Former University of Alabama quarterback and Mobile native AJ McCarron was recently named the head coach of the Birmingham Stallions. McCarron served as an NFL quarterback before moving to the XFL, where he would later win the league’s MVP award. This position change marks a significant jump as he will start coaching for the first time in his career. 

Other big names in the UFL include Matt Corral, Jordan Ta’amu, Taulia Tagovailoa, Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Justyn Ross, KJ Hamler, Benny Snell, and John Ross.

The 2026 Season 

Even with the season just kicking off, fans have already seen tons of great matchups and high-scoring games. In week one, fans saw the Dallas Renegades take down the Houston Gambler 36-17. Quarterback Austin Reed dominated, as he threw for 376 yards and three touchdowns to take an early lead for the UFL MVP. Week two saw the defending champs, the DC Defenders, dominate the Columbus Aviators, 44-26. The Defender’s run game led the way as they finished the game with 229 rushing yards to help even their record at 1-1. In week 3, the Defenders also dominated the Gamblers in a 45-7 blowout, and the Battlehawks outlasted the Stallions, 34-30. The Aviators and Defenders led Week 4 in scoring at 28, leading both their teams to wins.
With more action coming in the season, fans are just getting a taste of things to come. Games are typically played from Tuesday through Sunday, depending on the week, with games being aired on FOX, ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, and FS1. For more information on the UFL’s schedules, scores, and stats, visit The UFL.