The United Football League (UFL), in its first season under the merger between the United States Football League (USFL) and the XFL, has been a great springboard for HBCU athletes pursuing careers at the pro level.
Twelve former HBCU players are on the UFL’s eight active rosters, many of whom are rotation players on their respective teams.
One of the more prominent success stories this season is former Tennessee State wide receiver Chris Rowland, who has been a steady producer for the D.C. Defenders on special teams.
In the Defenders’ regular season-finale against the Arlington Renegades, Rowland finished with 316 all-purpose yards. This includes 274 kickoff return yards, highlighted by an 84-yard return for a touchdown, his first of the season.
This marks the third game in a row the Tennessee State product has finished with at least 200 all-purpose yards.
Rowland entered this game leading the UFL, averaging 25.7 yards per kick return on 37 attempts and ranking third in the league in total punt return yards (127).
He has also been a steady presence on offense, catching 17 passes for 235 yards and scoring three touchdowns while rushing for 29 yards on four attempts.
Defenders head coach Reggie Barlow, who is an Alabama State alum and former head coach of Virginia State, spoke highly of Rowland’s versatility on the field and his character off the field.
“Chris Rowland is an outstanding football player,” said Barlow. “We knew that he had a versatile game; he could be a receiver, he could be a returner, you could play him in the slot, or you could play him at running back. More importantly, he’s a great guy, he’s a great teammate. I saw a tweet that he put out where [he said] he’ll buy tickets for [10] people who wanted to come to the game. So, an amazing guy and an amazing football player, and we’re glad he’s a part of our team.”
“An amazing guy. Amazing football player and we’re glad he’s a part of our team.” @HDouglas83 spoke with @XFLDefenders HC @reggiebarlow on WR Chris Rowland ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/ZbbvPoFYLj
— United Football League (@TheUFL) June 2, 2024
Rowland’s success this season has many believing he deserves a shot at an NFL training camp invite.
UFL players are eligible to sign with NFL teams following the UFL championship game on June 16.
