This week concluded the NFL’s regular season with several former UFL players helping their team make the playoffs.
While several of the playoff-bound teams opted to rest their starters, the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings suited up for the most highly anticipated game of the weekend.
The division rivals were pitted against each other for the NFC Division crown and the number one seed heading into the payoffs. The loser would be relegated to also-ran status with the number five seed. The stakes couldn’t have been higher.
In claiming a historic 31-9 victory over the Vikings, the Lions set a new NFL record last night. Sunday night marked the first time that two 14-2 teams went head-to head. A couple of former UFL players were on the field for this history-making event.
Jake Bates-Detroit Lions Kicker
Jake Bates, the Detroit Lions rookie kicker, and former Michigan Panthers star played a big role in the Lions’ success this season. Bates continues to be a crucial member of the Lions high-scoring offense. Sunday night, he kicked a clutch 48-yard field goal to give the team a 10-6 lead at halftime. In addition, Bates converted four out of four extra points on Sunday night, extending his season total to 64 out of 67 attempts.
Jalen Redmond- Minnesota Vikings Defensive Lineman
Former D.C. Defenders DL, Jalen Redmond played Sunday night and was credited with another tackle. Heading into the playoffs next week, the Minnesota Vikings are the number five seed. The team will travel to California to take on the Los Angeles Rams.
KaVontae Turpin-Dallas Cowboys Wide Receiver and Return Specialist
One of two former UFL players named to the 2025 Pro Bowl, KaVontae Turpin had a tough afternoon when the Dallas Cowboys lost to the Washington Commanders by a score of the 19-23. In addition to his duties as a return specialist in Dallas’ final game of the season, Turpin had three receptions for 53 yards with one rushing attempt for 5 yards.
Unfortunately, the loss only added another disappointing end to the Cowboys’ season. Dallas is out of the playoffs and left to ponder what might have been this season. But at least Turpin and his teamamte Brandon Aubrey can look forward to the Pro Bowl.
Brandon Aubrey-Dallas Cowboys Kicker
Brandon Aubrey was one of the few bright spots for the Cowboys this season. For the second year in a row, Aubrey set a new Dallas record for the most field goals in a single season. On Sunday, he added four more for a new franchise high of 40.
In addition to a 41-yard kick, Aubrey added a 36-yarder, a 31-yard kick and a 22-yarder. He also added an extra point but it wasn’t enough for the Cowboys to beat the Washington Commanders. The playoff bound Commanders took an early lead even as Aubrey did his best to keep Dallas in the game.
Dondrea Tillman -Denver Broncos Offensive Linebacker
The Denver Broncos are headed to the playoffs after a resounding 38-0 shutout over the Kansas City Chiefs. Coach Andy Reid elected to “rest his starters” ahead of the playoffs, so the Broncos’ didn’t face the Chiefs starting lineup. But rookie quarterback Bo Nix, wide receiver Courtland Sutton and the rest of the team made the most of the opportunity. Former San Antonio Brahmas offensive lineman Dondrea Tillman, contributed one solo tackle and assisted on another.
Kevin Austin, Jr. -New Orleans Saints Wide Receiver
Former Birmingham Stallions wide receiver Kevin Austin, Jr. had one reception for 13 yards in the Saints 27-19 loss to the playoff bound Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Saints end their season on another disappointing loss.
The organization faces some big changes after coach Dennis Allen was fired mid-way thorugh the season. While discussions are already underway to find his replacement, the Saints also have to contend with their struggling rookie quarterback, Spencer Rattler.
Ben DiNucci -New Orleans Saints Quarterback
One possible solution at quarterback might be former Seattle Sea Dragons ace, Ben DiNucci. However, once again DiNucci remained on the practice squad while interim coach Darren Rizzi started Rattler.
Rex Sunahara-Cleveland Browns Long Snapper
It was a long afternoon for the Cleveland Browns and long snapper Rex Sunahara, the former San Antonio Brahma. The Browns lost 35-10 to one of the strongest teams in the NFL, the Baltimore Ravens. Cleveland was eliminated from playoff contention in week 16.
Andre Szymt- Cleveland Browns Kicker
Former St. Louis Battlehawks field goal kicker Andre Szmyt was among nine players signed to reserve/future contracts. Posting the best stat line of any kicker in the UFL, Szymt converted 19 of 21 field goals last season with his longest kick a 61-yarder.
Jeremiah Pharms-New England Patriots Defensive Tackle
Former Pittsburgh Mauler tackle Jeremiah Pharms Jr. and the New England Patriots benefitted from another top NFL team electing to rest their starters this weekend. The Buffalo Bills kept their MVP quarterback, Josh Allen on the bench in favor of his backup, Mitch Trubisky. The Bills lost to the Patriots by a score of 23.-16. Pharms contributed six tackles including one solo tackle in the loss.
John Parker Romo – New England Patriots Kicker
Joey Slye handled the kicking duties for the Patriots on Sunday. However, former Minnesota Vikings and San Antonio Brahmas kicker, John Parker Romo is among seven players signed to reserve/futures contracts.
Chris Blair-Atlanta Falcons Wide Receiver
Former DC Defenders wide receiver, Chris Blair did not record any catches in the Falcons’ heartbreaking overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers 44-38. Atlanta entered the game with an outside chance to make the playoffs. The Falcons and rookie quarterback Michael Penix fought hard but learned during their overtime period that Tampa Bay claimed the final playoff berth with a win over the Saints.
For the latest UFL to NFL weekly updates during the playoffs, check this site for the latest information.
