The Memphis Showboats have bolstered their backfield by signing standout running back Jada Byers.
NFL Network’s Steve Wyche first reported the news.
Byers, a dynamic playmaker from Virginia Union University, brings an impressive collegiate résumé to the United Football League.
Byers, a 5-foot-7, 185-pound native of Bridgeton, New Jersey, made his mark at the Division II level with the Virginia Union Panthers. Over four seasons (2021-24), he amassed 5,978 rushing yards and 71 touchdowns on 967 carries, while adding 70 receptions for 482 yards and four touchdowns.
Byers was a three-time CIAA Offensive Player of the Year and earned First Team All-American honors from both HBCU and AFCA. He also won the Deacon Jones Trophy and the Willie Lanier Award twice, cementing his status as one of the most decorated players in HBCU football history.
Virginia Union running back Jada Byers, one of the most prolific rushers in Division II, will be signing with the UFL’s Memphis Showboats, according to a source with knowledge of the situation. Byers was the Black College Football Hall of Fame’s Players of the year and was the…
— Steve Wyche (@wyche89) May 19, 2025
His 2024 campaign was particularly historic.
Byers rushed for a single-season school record of 2,061 yards and 27 touchdowns on 329 carries, while also contributing as a receiver and return specialist. His versatility and explosiveness made him a constant threat, both in the backfield and on special teams.
Despite being considered undersized for the professional level, Byers’ speed, vision, and playmaking ability have consistently set him apart.
His signing comes at a crucial time for the Showboats, who are looking to add depth and production to their running back corps as they prepare for the 2025 UFL season
