Sources close to UFL News Hub report John DeFilippo has resigned as head coach of the Memphis Showboats. The decision appears to be DeFilippo's, though details remain unclear.
The Showboats struggled in 2024, finishing 2-8 and securing the first overall pick in the UFL draft. This coaching change follows the August 2nd departure of General Manager Dennis Polian, leaving the Showboats without key leadership.
DeFilippo joined Memphis after leading the USFL's New Orleans Breakers to a 7-3 record in 2023. His NFL experience includes offensive coordinator roles with Cleveland, Minnesota, and Jacksonville.
Speculation surrounds potential replacements. Anthony Blevins, former defensive assistant for the Birmingham Stallions' championship run, could be a candidate. Blevins was slated to coach the Las Vegas Vipers before the team folded during the league merger.
The UFL has not officially announced DeFilippo's resignation. We are not sure when it will become official.
We also hear that more information about the 2025 UFL season is expected in early September. There has been a lot of shuffling of staff behind the scenes. The United Football League looks to be ready to go by then.
DeFilippo's coaching resume includes:
- 15 seasons with 8 NFL teams
- Quarterbacks coach for 2017 Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles
- Guided Kirk Cousins to historic passing season in Minnesota
- Overcame Ankylosing Spondylitis diagnosis during 2023 USFL season
The Showboats face uncertainty as they search for new leadership heading into the 2025 season. The league has announce that season ticket packages are coming soon for the Showboats.
UFL officials will be at the first Memphis Tigers home game on August 31st to asses the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium renovations. From there, season ticket packages will be announced. The team will hopefully have a new GM and coach by then as well.