With the announcement that the XFL is returning in 2020, Go Joe Bruin takes a look at several current and former UCLA football players that could fit nicely into Vince McMahon’s resurrected league.
I have to admit, like the rest of the football loving world, this morning I was transfixed on the news that Vince McMahon was bring back the XFL. The once failed experiment by the head man of the WWE is now returning the alternative to the NFL, though with a bit more theatrics.
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Though I initially did not care for the idea, when I got an email from my College Division Director telling me to look at my team, it really got me thinking, since the XFL is two years away from existence, what current and former UCLA football players would shine in the new league?
The writers of Go Joe Bruin came up with several excellent choices.
UCLA Football players that would shine in the XFL
Ishmael Adams – He is explosive, enough said. Though he wasn’t able to get things going on the offensive side of the ball in his final year, on defense and special teams he was a monster.
Joseph Fauria – If you follow Fauria on Twitter, you know that he is quite entertaining, but for those that remember him in blue and gold, you remember a player that towered over everyone (that happens when you’re 6’7″). Now that’s entertainment!
Soso Jamabo – When he gets in the open field, Jamabo can put on a show. He has speed and flashiness, a perfect combo for the new old league.
Theo Howard – Howard is a human highlight reel. We have seen what he can do the last two season (when finally allowed to play) but he is going to wow fans in Chip Kelly‘s offense next season and it will be amazing. If he doesn’t make the NFL (he will), then he could put on major theatrics in the XFL.
Brett Hundley – Not to say Hundley won’t last in the NFL, but he always entertained every time he wore a UCLA jersey and fans knew it. With his arm and his legs, he could be the XFL’s Russell Wilson.
Jordan Lasley – This guy has swagger, that is all you need to know. Okay, plus he also has a little bit of ferocity in him, but that could go a long way.
Matt Mengel – Not only was he a solid punter, but he hand the best war paint on the entire team (when they were allowed to wear it), which he should bring back while pinning balls inside the 20 of XFL fields across the nation.
Eddie Vanderdoes – As much as I never want him to leave Oakland, if he did, he would dominate the line, which is a given, but it his post play celebrations that I want to see.
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Jaleel Wadood – Not very outgoing personalty-wise, but he does not have to be when he lets his hitting do the talking. If he doesn’t get selected in the NFL Draft, he should bulk up and train for a spot as an enforcer in the XFL.