Cornell Powell has returned to the NFL with Steelers in need for some reinforcement at the position. The D.C. Defender alum previously spent training camp with the Houston Texans upon the completion of the UFL season.
Powell was a 5th round pick in 2021 out of Clemson to the Kansas City Chiefs spending almost four seasons with the team before his release mid-season 2024. He’d spend the remainder of 2024 with the Seattle Seahawks before being waived in February of 2025. He’d join the Defenders on March 3rd, becoming a key piece of D.C.’s championship run recording 29 receptions for 418 yards and 7 touchdowns during the regular season.
Powell continues the effective pipeline of Defenders wide receivers to the NFL. Defenders Wide Receivers have earned 10 NFL contracts (Brandon Smith earning two opportunities) since their reboot in 2023. The Defenders franchise has seen Chris Blair (23′), Lucky Jackson (23′), Kelvin Harmon (24′), Brandon Smith (24′), and now Powell all spend time on NFL rosters during the regular seasons.
The 2025 UFL signing class has seen 62 players earn NFL contracts so far during this season. The signing class is on track to earn more than 7.1 million dollars this season with spring football players earning over 58 million dollars this year.
Other UFL Notes:
Battlehawks DB Nick Whiteside was released from the Lions active roster and is candidate to return to their practice squad. Stallions offensive lineman Barry Wesley was activated off injured reserve and should make his debut for the Saints in week 12. New Jersey Generals WR KaVontae Turpin has eclipsed 1000 All-Purpose yards for the 2025 season, his 2nd consecutive season doing so.