In a recent media session, Memphis Showboats defensive coordinator Jarren Horton and players Kyree Woods and Dee Anderson provided insights on the team’s preparations for the upcoming UFL season. With training camp in full swing and roster cuts approaching, the Showboats coaching staff and players shared their thoughts on defensive strengths, position battles, and expectations for the 2025 UFL season that kicks off March 28.
Defense Looking to Lead the League
Defensive coordinator Jarren Horton expressed confidence in his unit’s potential to be among the best in the UFL.
“I expect our front seven to be up there with the best in the league. I believe in this defense and how we’re structured. And I think if we go out and do our jobs and perform like we should, we can be… I mean, I realistically think that we can be the best defense in the league and be the best run defense in the league if we just do what we need to do.”
Horton’s assessment reflects the growing confidence within the Showboats’ defensive unit as they prepare for their season opener against Michigan in less than two weeks. Horton had a successful run as defensive coordinator for the USFL’s Pittsburgh Maulers. The defensive should be much improved in 2025.
Roster Decisions Looming
With cuts expected in the coming days, Horton acknowledged the difficult decisions ahead for the coaching staff.
“Cuts are happening, I think, in the next two or three days. We’re going to have to cut some good players, some guys that can for sure play in this league at certain positions, and it’s just a product of the numbers and how those all work out.”
The limited 50-man roster in the UFL creates tough choices for coaches, particularly when evaluating talented players who might not make the final cut. Versatility appears to be a key factor in the decision-making process.
Linebacker Competition Remains Open
One position group highlighted during the interview was the linebacker corps, which features several newcomers to the league.
“The inside linebacker room is completely different. So there’s been a lot of, I guess, movement on the depth chart, if you would say that. We haven’t given a depth chart just because we wanted everyone to be able to compete for who’s going to start. And I don’t know who’s going to start right now. We play against Michigan in 12 days. That is still remaining to be seen.”
This position battle stands out as one of the most competitive in camp, with Horton indicating that performances in the upcoming scrimmage against Birmingham could help determine starting roles.
Secondary Strength and Experience
Veteran defensive back Kyree Woods expressed optimism about the secondary unit.
“Our secondary looks solid, I would say. I think this is a good group, a lot of guys from the lead, so they come with that experience. I’m very excited. Everybody has a unique set of skills. And I feel like our goal is just to get the ball back to the offense. Getting turnovers, that’s really our goal.”
This assessment aligns with comments from both Coach Horton and head coach Ken Whisenhunt, who have identified the secondary as a potential strength of the defense. Woods finished the 2024 UFL season with 39 tackles.
Wide Receiver Competition
On the offensive side, wide receiver Dee Anderson shared thoughts on the receiving corps and their preparations.
“Everybody does have high expectations for us. We talk about this a lot. We’re in camp right now. We’re head down, grinding, keeping out the outside noise. Right now, we all just working on technique, trying to get in and out of breaks and things like that. I think we got a very, very special group, and I think it’s way better than last year.”
Anderson, who stands at 6’6″, also noted the quality work he’s getting against the team’s cornerbacks during practice sessions. He finished the 2024 season with 142 yards and 1 touchdown.
The Memphis Showboats continue their preparation for the 2025 UFL season with a scrimmage against Birmingham scheduled for Wednesday. The team opens their season against Michigan, with both coaches and players expressing confidence in their potential to compete at a high level in the league’s second season.
