One of the most exciting UFL defensive players from last season is poised to make his debut with a new expansion team in 2026. Former Memphis Showboats’ star linebacker Steele Chambers returns for a second UFL season, joining the Louisville Kings.
Originally from Roswell, GA, the dual-threat 6’1” 240 lb. Chambers was a four-star recruit who initially began his football career at Ohio State University as a running back.
Chambers, A Dual Threat At Ohio State
In his first two seasons at OSU, Chambers rushed 28 times for 221 yards and one touchdown. But encouraged by the coaching staff, he began to alternate between offense and defense to see which position he was best suited for. By 2021, the decision was made, and he was fully committed to playing linebacker.
That season, following a 67-17 victory over Maryland, Chambers shared “Player of the Game” honors with teammate and Seattle Seahawks’ star receiver, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, recording seven tackles (six solo), a TFL, and his first career sack.
Later that week, OSU defensive coordinator Kerry Coombs praised Chamber’s potential, “He sees, he goes. You say, ‘Well, that seems real simple,’ but it’s not. Sometimes guys go, and then they see. Sometimes they see, and then they go. He sees, and he goes. He’s not always right where he’s going yet because he needs that experience. But when he sees it, he goes. Guys like that are fun to coach, and we’ve had a bunch of them here. … If he sees it and he goes and he keeps doing that, he’s gonna play a lot of football for the Buckeyes.”
Throughout his collegiate career, Chambers posted 190 tackles,11.5 TFLs, 2.0 sacks, and three interceptions. An Honorable Mention All-Big Ten Conference selection in 2022 and 2023, Chambers was projected to be a mid-round draft pick at the 2024 NFL Combine.
Chambers, The 2024 NFL Draft
Described as a “rangy run defender inside” by NFLdraftbuzz.com, Chambers was praised as a “tough, violent tackler with a non-stop motor.”
Although he was credited with excellent zone coverage awareness at the time of the Draft, Chambers’ primary weakness was not finishing plays on the field.
When he wasn’t selected, the Detroit Lions signed him as an UDFA in April of 2024. Waived by Detroit the following June, Chambers was immediately signed by the New England Patriots but released before the start of the 2024 season.
Chambers, Making An Impact In The UFL
Signing with the Showboats in February of 2025, Chambers made an immediate impact with DC Jarren Horton’s defense, leading the team with 81 tackles (46 solo) and two pass defenses. He ranked second in the UFL behind San Antonio Brahmas’ All-UFL Team standout Tavante Beckett, with 89 tackles (47 solo) and five TFLs.
Like Chambers, Beckett is now poised to make his debut with a new expansion team, the Orlando Storm.
What can fans expect from Chambers? The Kings’ defensive coordinator Jamie Sharper inherits a talented player whose enthusiasm and discipline will help set the tone as a leader on the field and in the locker room. Chambers’ engaging personality, love of the game, and his competitive nature will inspire teammates to put forth their best effort.
Expect to see Chambers become a fan favorite in Louisville this season.
