As the UFL draft goes into the second day of its draft, several players have retired despite being selected by UFL teams. This comes after notable players like Jace Sternberger and C.J. Marable have confirmed their intentions of not playing in 2026 as well.
Sources have confirmed that former Battlehawk Jaryd Jones-Smith, former Stallion Amari Rodgers, and former Michigan Panther Kai Nacua will be moving on from their football careers. The previously mentioned players were drafted by the Houston Gamblers, Columbus Aviators, and D.C. Defenders respectively.
The UFL landscape continues to change as teams continue to build in hopes of solidifying their attempt at a 2026 UFL championship. 31 players have confirmed or announced their intention to retire since the completion of the 2025 UFL season with more expected to as training camp approaches. The 2026 UFL season is scheduled to begin on March 27th, with the schedule released on January 22nd.