After the 2026 UFL QB draft one unselected UFL Quarterback has opted to join the coaching ranks. Danny Etling, who spent two seasons with the Michigan Panthers is expected to be hired by the Washington Commanders as their assistant Quarterbacks Coach for the 2026 NFL season per Matt Zenitz.
Etling is an 8-year professional quarterback whose career spanned between the NFL, CFL, and UFL. His career has taken him to the New England Patriots, Atlanta Falcons, Seattle Seahawks, Minnesota Vikings, BC Lions, Denver Broncos, Green Bay Packers, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Michigan Panthers. Etling was originally a 7th-round pick in 2018, earning a Super Bowl ring with New England his rookie season.
Etling spent two seasons with the Panthers throwing for over 1,300 passing yards, 8 TDs, along with adding 220 rushing yards, and 2 rushing TDs over 7 starts with Michigan. As the UFL goes into their third season, Etling joins an ever-growing list of retiring players transitioning to the next phase of their career.
With the Panthers now defunct, the players rights were now transferred to the Columbus Aviators. The Aviators opted to select quarterbacks Clayton Tune, Jalan McClendon, and Jalen Morton for the 2026 season.