Not every professional football journey follows a straight line.
For some players, an NFL opportunity turns into a lengthy career at the highest level.
Others continue chasing their football dreams through alternative leagues, hoping to earn another chance to prove themselves. This year’s UFL Championship provides several examples of the latter, particularly for New York Jets fans.
When the D.C. Defenders and Louisville Kings meet with a championship on the line, both teams will feature former members of the Jets organization. While none became household names during their time in New York, each has found an opportunity to continue playing the game professionally.
That alone is worth celebrating.
Notable former Jets on Louisville Kings’ roster
- Kalen Ballage, running back
- Tarik Black, wide receiver
- Bryce Hall, cornerback
Louisville enters the championship game with several former Jets scattered throughout its roster. Running back Kalen Ballage may be the most recognizable name of the group.
During his NFL career, Ballage spent time with multiple organizations, including a stint with the Jets. Known for his size and athleticism, he remains a player many fans remember from his days in the league.
Wide receiver Tarik Black is another former Jet who found a home in Louisville. The former Michigan Wolverines/ Texas Longhorns standout spent time pursuing an NFL opportunity before continuing his career elsewhere.
Cornerback Bryce Hall rounds out the former Jets contingent. Hall enjoyed a much longer run in New York than many players who eventually make their way to spring football leagues, appearing in numerous games and earning meaningful snaps during his Jets tenure.
Notable former Jets on DC Defenders’ roster
- Xzavian Valladay, running back
- Brandon Smith, linebacker
- Blake Williams
The Defenders also boast several players with ties to the Jets organization. Running back Xazavian Valladay has continued to showcase the versatility that helped him earn NFL opportunities.
Linebacker Brandon Smith remains another familiar name for those who closely follow roster transactions and player development stories. Blake Williams also represents New York’s former pipeline to professional football, giving the Defenders multiple connections to the Jets organization.
As championship weekend arrives, the spotlight naturally falls on the teams competing for a title. For Jets fans, however, there may be an extra reason to tune in.
The UFL Championship serves as a reminder that while NFL careers don’t always unfold as planned, opportunities in football often continue long after a player’s time with one organization ends.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Former Jets take center stage in 2026 UFL Championship
