The Memphis Showboats earned the first pick in every round in the UFL College Draft for their “winner takes all” victory over the Houston Roughnecks.
With the number one overall pick, the Showboats selected Kansas quarterback Jason Bean. A red-shirt transfer from the University of North Texas, Bean finished his college career with the University of Kanas.
University of Kansas Quarterback, Jason Bean
As a collegiate athlete, Bean passed for almost 6,000 yards (5,969) on 414 completions out of 698 attempts with 55 touchdowns. Bean scored six touchdowns on 449 yards in the 2023 Guaranteed Rate Bowl. That performance earned him the distinction of the most passing touchdowns ever for a Big 12 player in a bowl game. In addition to his passing skills, Bean brings speed and mobility to the Showboats. Bean scored 14 rushing touchdowns on 251 carries for 1,344 yards in college.
Bean signed with the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent in May of 2024. Choosing an alternate path with the UFL suggests he is a young athlete who hungers to play immediately rather than wait for a possible opening with the Colts.
The fact that the Showboats drafted a quarterback with their first overall pick indicates a lack of satisfaction with their current quarterback situation. Last season, the Showboats rotated through three quarterbacks during the 10-game season. Starter Case Cookus and backup quarterback Troy Williams achieved mixed results throughout the season.
Although Josh Love played well during his only start in the season finale, it’s likely the team won’t move forward with all three quarterbacks. A fresh beginning with Bean at the helm and at least one of the other three backing him up could be a likely outcome of today’s draft.
The University of Memphis Running Back, Blake Watson
With the first pick of the second round, the Memphis Showboats selected hometown hero, University of Memphis running back Blake Watson. During his career as a Memphis Tiger, Watson rushed for over 2,600 yards on 475 carries with 20 touchdowns. Adding another 681 yards through the air on 86 receptions with four touchdowns, Watson presents an attractive addition to the Showboats’ offense.
Although Watson recently signed with Sean Payton and the Denver Broncos,’ the lure of playing in the UFL for his home team was too attractive an option to pass up. Known for his pass-catching ability as well as running the football, Watson sees himself as the kind of player who can contribute and make a difference with the Showboats’ offense. “I think I’m a do-it-all-type of guy,” the rookie said. “Whatever the team needs me to do, I’m going to be able to do it. I’m excited to play my role.”
Florida Atlantic Defensive Tackle Evan Anderson
The Showboats selected defensive tackle Evan Anderson in the third round of the UFL College Draft. During his four years at Florida Atlantic University, Anderson was credited with 145 tackles, (20 for a loss) seven sacks, and recovered three fumbles. He signed with the San Francisco 49ers in May of 2023 as a UFDA. Now, Anderson has the option of playing with the UFL this year.
Holy Cross Wide Receiver Jalen Coker
Wide receiver Jalen Coker, drafted by the Showboats in the fourth round, is an exciting prospect from Holy Cross. The 6’1″ 208 pound Coker ranked 23rd for his athleticism in the 2024 NFL combine and 30th overall. Selected as a Finalist for the Walter Payton Award (top player in the FCS) Coker, led the FCS with 1,040 yards on 59 receptions with 15 receiving touchdowns. With the Showboats losing wide receiver Daewood Davis to the NFL, Anderson could become a solid addition to the receiving team.
The University of Connecticut -Defensive End Eric Watts
A three-year starter from the University of Connecticut, Watts was credited with 141 tackles, 17 of which were for a loss, and 9.5 sacks in his time with the Huskies. Although he started strong in his first two years, his performance slipped in his final year. That may have been a factor in Watts not being selected in the 2024 NFL Draft. Nonetheless, he signed as a UFDA with the New York Jets. 6’5” tall, and 277 pounds, Watts brings impressive speed and could provide added depth at the edge rusher position for the Showboats.
The University of Oklahoma Sooner Center Andrew Raym
6’4” 314 University of Oklahoma Sooner center Andrew Raym, was a nominee for the 2023 Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year award. Signed by the Carolina Panthers as an undrafted free agent in May of 2024, Raym was selected by the Showboats with the first pick of the sixth round.
Temple University Linebacker Yvandy Rigby
Originally from Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey Yvandy Rigby graduated from Temple University where he was a linebacker. A weekly captain for the Owls, Rigby led his team with more than 200 career tackles. A native of Turks and Caicos, the 6’2” 230 lb. Rigby came to the US as a 14-year-old unaccompanied minor. Rigby had to overcome a great deal just to play football. Thankfully, his high school coach recognized his potential and made him a part of his family. Now, in addition to being signed as a UFDA to the Baltimore Ravens, Rigby has another option available to him with the UFL.
The University of Maryland Cornerback Ja’Quan Sheppard
Signed as an undrafted free agent to the Las Vegas Raiders, Sheppard earned an Honorable Mention for the All-Big Ten team during his senior year and was an instrumental part of Maryland’s postseason bowl victory over Auburn.
The University of Tennessee Tight End McCallan Castles
The highly-rated tight end was considered one of the SEC’s most versatile in his senior year. Possessing both great blocking ability along with his pass-catching talent, the 6’4″ 244 lb. Castles racked up multiple career honors at Tennessee. Joining the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted free agent in late April, Castles now looks to continue his Tennessee playing career in Memphis.
Yale University Wide Receiver Mason Tipton
Tipton, the three-time All-Ivy league selection ranked third in Bulldogs history for 19 career touchdowns. He had 132 receptions and 2,067 career receiving yards. His senior year was his best season when Tipton was credited with 786 yards and 10 touchdowns. Tipton is a UFDA with the New Orleans Saints.
Looking ahead to the future, the Showboats are off to a strong start addressing last year’s coverage gaps. The 2025 Showboats are ready to demonstrate a significant improvement over last year’s frustrating inaugural season. Look out Memphis fans, it’s Showtime!
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