The UFL community was given some shocking, and sad news in regard to one of their mainstays of the league. After suffering a knee injury during week eight Defenders Quarterback, Jordan Ta'amu was announced (in a now deleted post) that Ta'amu will be missing the remainder of the 2026 regular season.
Ta'amu, who many consider the MVP for the 2026 UFL season, appears to now be on the road to recovery, as the Defenders look to clinch a playoff spot for the 2026 season. Moving forward it appears the team will lean on 2nd-year QB Spencer Sanders, and the newly acquired Jason Bean in their hopes of repeating as UFL champions.
With the open roster spot, the Defenders will most likely look elsewhere for a replacement for the remaining weeks of the season. Below are five options D.C. may consider with Ta'amu, allegedly sidelined.
1. Emory Jones
Jones was signed by the Defenders in 2024, however would find a home with the Atlanta Falcons from 2024 to 2026. With many members of the Defenders staff still with the team, Jones could be a option that fits the mold for the Defenders offense.
2. Devin Leary
Leary shares a similar to playing style to not only Jones, but many of the Defenders quarterbacks on the roster. With limited NFL interest, Leary could be an easy option to get him "in the building" and back to relevance in the NFL cycle. He beat out Jones in 2024 with the Baltimore Ravens spending the 2024 season on their practice squad.
3. Tanner Mordecai
Fans of the 2024 UFL college draft have seen Bean, Rocky Lombardi, Chevan Corderio, and now John Rhys Plumlee all suit up for UFL teams, leaving only Sam Hartman, Kedon Slovis, and Mordecai as the remaining members who have suited up for UFL teams. While Hartman, and Slovis are currently rostered with NFL teams, Mordecai (who DC drafted) could be an option for the team.
4. Michael Pratt
While its unknown if Pratt is healthy the 2026 UFL season hasn't been the most engaging for him, due to a late start and injuries. If Pratt is healthy bringing him in to compete, while having him back in the UFL cycle isn't a bad option for the long-term outlook of the team.
5. E.J. Perry
Perry would own the most experience in the Defenders' QB room and could possibly provide a veteran presence if called upon. While he's been sporadic, he's played in playoff games and has had success for the Michigan Panthers at times. He was recently released by the CFL's Montreal Alouettes after "double-dipping" in 2025.