UFL to NFL Weekly Activity Tracker -Week 4

Although it was a relatively quiet week for the former UFL players in the NFL this week, find out which individual had another standout performance.

Brandon Aubrey -Dallas Cowboys Kicker

The biggest UFL to NFL impact this week was by second-year Dallas Cowboys kicking sensation Brandon Aubrey.  The former USFL Birmingham Stallions kicker has already distinguished himself as one of the best kickers in the NFL. Aubrey gave another winning performance, coming just one yard shy of breaking the NFL record for the longest field goal in history with a stunning 65-yard boot last week against the Baltimore Ravens.

Making a significant contribution to the Cowboys’ 20-15 win over the New York Giants, Aubrey split the uprights with a striking 60-yard field goal. But the night’s biggest surprise was when Aubrey missed on a 51-yard field goal in the 4th quarter. Fans have become so accustomed to seeing Aubrey as perfect throughout the last two seasons, that it was a shock to see him miss. But bouncing right back, Aubrey capped off the Cowboys’ victory with a resounding 40-yard field goal in the closing minutes of the game.

KaVontae Turpin -Dallas Cowboys Wide Receiver

It was a quiet night for Aubrey’s Cowboys teammate, second-year player, KaVontae Turpin. The former USFL New Jersey General’s return specialist and wide receiver did not record any receptions in the Cowboys’ victory over the Giants.

Dondrea Tillman-Denver Broncos Offensive Lineman

After a thrilling NFL debut that saw Dondrea Tillman make a big impact with three tackles and two sacks, Tillman had another strong performance in the Broncos’ 10-9 win over the New York Jets. Under rainy, wind-swept conditions the Broncos claimed their second consecutive road victory. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix finally got his first NFL touchdown with a 9-yard pass to Courtland Sutton. Tillman stepped up to contribute two more tackles in the closely fought game.

Jalen Redmond-Minnesota Vikings Defensive End

It was a quiet afternoon for the former Arlington Renegades defensive player, Jalen Redmond. Redmond was not credited with any sacks or tackles this week. After a thrilling 31-29 victory over their division rival, the Green Bay Packers, the Vikings continue to be the talk of the NFL as one of the few undefeated 4-0 teams.

Jake Bates -Detroit Lions Kicker

Monday night’s game against the Seattle Seahawks proved to be a relatively quiet night for the Detroit Lions field goal kicker Jake Bates. With the Lions scoring touchdowns at will in their 42-29 victory, there was no need for his field goal prowess. But Bates’ ability to provide 6/6 extra points was significant. Bates’ enormous leg strength and long-distance kicking ability can give the Lions a solid option instead of punting in 4th down scenarios.

Matthew McCrane-Detroit Lions Practice Squad

One more UFL player was added to an NFL practice squad in September. Former D.C. Defenders kicker, Matthew McCrane was added to the Detroit Lions practice squad as a backup to Bates. Converting 16 of 20 field goals in the 10-game UFL regular season, McCrane was third in the UFL league standings. McCrane’s longest field goal was a beautiful 58-yard kick.

Sadly, as the season progresses, injuries to NFL players are inevitable. Additional opportunities for practice squad players to become active for a single game or more will likely occur.  Keep checking back here for the weekly updates.

Sue Levine

Sue Levine spent the past five years creating and producing a successful weekly health and wellness podcast starring a wonderful iconic woman as the program host. As part of Sue's responsibilities, she scripted every episode and discovered a genuine love of writing. When the podcast ended late last year, she shifted the focus of her writing to covering pro sports. A passionate fan of NFL and UFL football as well as fantasy, she is delighted to be able to share her articles with other football fans.

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