The USFL continues to prove that they knocked it out of the park in 2022. The league is now up to 29 NFL signings, with no indications of slowing down anytime soon.
This is an encouraging thing to see. As we all know by now, the USFL played some excellent football from April through July. Due to this, many athletes are getting opportunities with NFL teams.
Derrick Dillon | WR, Tampa Bay Bandits
Former @USFLBandits WR Derrick Dillon is signing with the Cleveland Browns. pic.twitter.com/X3ckNwzgjs
— USFL (@USFL) August 1, 2022
Derrick Dillon, a wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Bandits, has signed with the Cleveland Browns. Dillon was a fantastic target for Jordan Ta’amu all year long, posting 386 receiving yards and four touchdowns.
THE FOCUS FOR THE TD 🔥
What at catch by @DerrickDillon4 for the longest passing TD of the season 🙌
📺: @FOXSports pic.twitter.com/moh7MS54EU
— Tampa Bay Bandits (@USFLBandits) June 18, 2022
Now that both Dillon and Rashard Davis have been signed by NFL teams, Ta’amu has lost his two best targets – at least, for the time being. We’ll see how Tampa addresses this factor in the offseason.
Sage Surratt | TE, Birmingham Stallions
The Los Angeles Chargers have signed USFL Champion TE Sage Surratt. pic.twitter.com/0o6YtjQPD3
— USFL (@USFL) August 1, 2022
Sage Surratt was a tight end for the Birmingham Stallions, winning the inaugural Championship with the team. During the season, he saw some playing time down the stretch, making important plays in Cary Angeline’s absence.
What a catch from @SageSurratt_14 for a BIG first down 👏🐎
📺: @FOXSports pic.twitter.com/4nM0oNU5YV
— CHAMPIONSTALLIONS (@USFLStallions) May 29, 2022
He finished the season with 148 receiving yards. Now, he signs with the Los Angeles Chargers, joining a former spring league tight end there in Donald Parham.
Alex Akingbulu | OL, Philadelphia Stars
Former @USFLStars T Alex Akingbulu has signed with the Washington Commanders. pic.twitter.com/RDi9LytWNa
— USFL (@USFL) July 30, 2022
The Philadelphia Stars have produced another NFL athlete. Alex Akingbulu, offensive lineman for the team, has signed with the Washington Commanders. Akingbulu was a key piece to the Stars’ Championship run, and now will pursue his NFL dreams with the Commanders.
Darrin Paulo | OL, Tampa Bay Bandits
The #Lions have signed @USFLBandits T Darrin Paulo. pic.twitter.com/5ppe0ZAmSZ
— USFL (@USFL) July 29, 2022
Another offensive lineman is headed to the NFL, this time from Tampa Bay. Darrin Paulo, who didn’t see much playing time this year with the Bandits, is headed to the Detroit Lions.
Final Thoughts
Here at the USFLNewsroom, we couldn’t be more excited to see all of these signings. The USFL played some fantastic professional football, with exceptional talent showcased week in and week out. You can stay up to date on all USFL to NFL signings with our official tracker.
What do you think of these NFL signings? Who do you think will have the best chance at sticking on a roster? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
