Before there was the USFL, former league President Brian Woods ran The Spring League. TSL ultimately found themselves on FOX after COVID forced the XFL into bankruptcy. Due to the success of their partnership we’ve seen the rebirth of the United States Football League.
After a successful first season, many were surprised when Brian Woods stepped down from his role as Presdent of the USFL. Today, it seems we have some more insight on his next steps.
ESPN reports that Brian Woods is launching a spring football league for high school players.
Woods said his league will use NCAA playing rules and will operate independent of high school state athletic associations, giving players the chance to profit off their name, image and likeness without any restrictions.
According to the report, Woods’ new league intends to run from April 19th through May 24th with teams located in Atlanta, Cleveland, Dallas, Houston, New Jersey, New Orleans, Los Angeles, Miami, Phoenix, San Diego, San Francisco, and Tampa, Florida.
It’s also said that Woods’ plans to start hiring coaching in the next few months.
Woods said the league could supplement the recruiting camps and 7-on-7 programs that provide recruiting showcases for prospects during the months when they aren’t playing high school football.
If you look at 7-on-7, you look at these camps, at the end of the day, none of them are 11-on-11 football,” Woods said. “None of them are going to give a quarterback, for instance, in a 7-on-7 situation, a live pass rush. So, if you’re looking to evaluate players in an actual football context, that’s what this league is about.”
It looks as if this new high school spring league is looking to capitilize on NIL benefits, with hopes of giving players an opportunity to showcase their talents prior to college.
Woods noted that the arrival of the transfer portal has produced a tougher environment for high school prospects seeking to gain the attention of colleges that might be more willing to take a chance on players with college experience.
He believes that situation could make this type of league appealing to recruits as they seek a way to stand out.
What are your thoughts on Brian Woods new project? Let us know down in the comments below or join the conversation on Discord.
