As the NFL gets ready to kick off on Thursday September 4th, several NFL players will make their NFL debuts while the week prior several players had their NFL dreams put on hold. After outlining Ten Offensive players that could garner UFL interest, below are 10 Defensive players that could be playing in the spring in 2026.
Shilo Sanders Defensive Back
Though controversial, wouldn’t Shilo Sanders bring eyeballs to the UFL? In a league where every player is looking to bring a spotlight to themselves, the last name Sanders is always a positive in bringing eyeballs. While Sanders may not be the most talented football player, his brand recognition could make (or break) the UFL.
Best fit: Houston Roughnecks
Desmond Watson Defensive Linemen
Is Desmond Watson good at football? Well, that’s extremely unclear due to him being sidelined the whole preseason with the Buccaneers. Watson earned a $74,830 as a signing bonus and was regulated to walking in effort to get his weight down. As far a redemption projects, Watson is definitely up there.
Best fit: Arlington Renegades
Ian Kennelly Safety
When Safety Dan Jackson was placed on injured reserve, Kennelly increased his role with the Lions however, still didn’t manage to crack their practice squad. Kennelly may find his way back to a practice squad, but putting together a solid 10 games in the UFL could raise his staying power in the NFL.
Best fit: St. Louis Battlehawks or Michigan Panthers
Taven Bryan Defensive Lineman
Bryan is a former first round pick who will probably find his way back on an NFL roster when injuries mount. While Bryan may not look to the UFL, he wouldn’t be the first 1st round pick to garner some film in hopes of regaining some stability in the NFL.
Best fit: Houston Roughnecks or San Antonio Brahmas
Baylon Spector Linebacker
Spector had some early success in his career as a 7th round pick in 2022. After an injury, and the Bills getting a bit younger at Linebacker, Spector now finds himself on the outs for the first time in his career. Spector could find a bit of a career resurgence in the UFL following the path of DeMarquis Gates.
Best fit: Birmingham Stallions
Ty Summers Linebacker
Summers is a bit longer in the tooth than Spector but has played a lot of good football as a reserve linebacker in his career. His veteran presence ability to be a force within the tackles makes him a key asset for younger teams in the UFL, looking for leadership in their room.
Best fit: Michigan Panthers
Christian Wilkins Defensive Lineman
Is Christian Wilkins off-limits? The former Clemson made waves in the off-season for his “antics” leading to his release. Wilkins is a free agent that could try a career revival if he doesn’t get an opportunity this NFL cycle.
Best fit: Memphis Showboats
Ryan Cooper Cornerback
Cooper was recently cut by the Jets, and does have some experience on NFL rosters in 2024. He was a UDFA in 2024 and possesses a certain tenacity that could thrive in the UFL. While he doesn’t have the best size or speed, Cooper could transition to Safety and possibly make a push for his NFL career.
Best fit: D.C. Defenders
Casey Rogers Defensive Lineman
Another “feel-good” story, Justin Rogers won some hearts and minds with his highlights on Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Buffalo Bills. The bonus of having Rogers? He’s not a terrible football player either. Rogers is a perfect development prospect who could thrive in the right system.
Best fit: St. Louis Battlehawks
David Long Cornerback
A Michigan man, Long has been around the NFL since 2019 when he came into the league with the Rams. With his ties to Panthers GM Steve Kazor, and his alma mater being the U of M, the 27-year-old Long could be an easy pick for Panthers come next spring.
Best fit: Michigan Panthers