Fresh off his MVP award-winning season with the UFL Championship Louisville Kings, running back Ian Wheeler is the latest UFL star to sign with an NFL team. It was announced earlier today that he will be signing with the Buffalo Bills.
Louisville Kings Ian Wheeler Becomes The Latest UFL Star To Sign With An NFL Team
Wheeler, a standout from Howard University, played in nine games and led Louisville in rushing this season with a regular-season total of 68 carries for 386 yards with six touchdowns, plus six receptions for 36 yards. He also handled kick return duties for the Kings, averaging 28.5 yards on 13 carries for 375 yards.
In Week 5, Wheeler's amazing performance against the Dallas Renegades set a UFL record with 13 carries for 62 yards and four touchdowns. He was the first UFL player to reach the end zone four times in a single game.
During the Kings' incredible postseason run, Wheeler led the Kings’ ground attack with another 17 carries for 175 yards with two touchdowns, and 2 receptions for 58 yards. His game-winning 44-yard touchdown during the United Bowl gave the Kings a fourth-quarter lead and earned him the MVP award.
Wheeler, a standout from Howard University, went undrafted in 2024 but spent the 2024 preseason with the Chicago Bears. After posting a two-touchdown performance in a game against Buffalo, Wheeler's chances of making the roster looked good. But in the preseason finale against the Kansas City Chiefs, Wheeler tore his ACL, ending his season before it even began.
However, Wheeler's resilience in the face of such a heartbreaking twist prepared him well. He maintained a great attitude, worked hard at rehab, and never gave up hope of returning to the NFL. He took every opportunity with the UFL to showcase his talents and prove he deserved another shot in the NFL.
Now, Wheeler joins the same team that first spotted his potential when he memorably scored two touchdowns against them in a preseason game two years ago.