In an interesting turn of events, Kurt Benkert will not be joining the XFL. Earlier today, it was announced that Benkert, along with D’Eriq King, were assigned to XFL teams. Benkert was placed on the Houston Roughnecks, while King was assigned to the DC Defenders.
MAJOR news for the @XFLRoughnecks: QB Kurt Benkert has officially been assigned to the team.
Benkert's flashed signs of brilliance in the NFL, but hasn't led a team himself. This could all change in the #XFL – all he has to do is win the starting gig.pic.twitter.com/w2yH16lPPk
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenMI) December 12, 2022
Just hours later, it has come to our attention that Kurt will not be playing in the XFL. After a long and hard consideration, it seems like Benkert is planning on spending the offseason with his family.
🤟🏼❤️ pic.twitter.com/TsMdvIjyad
— Kurt Benkert (@KurtBenkert) December 13, 2022
For the last few months, Benkert was rumored to be joining the XFL. He himself hinted at it, but then joined the San Francisco 49ers for a few weeks. After his release from the NFL, the XFL immediately pursued him once again, in hopes of Benkert signing with the Roughnecks. Now, it appears like the QB won’t be joining the league at all.
This leaves Houston with three quarterbacks: Brandon Silvers, Caleb Eleby, and Cole McDonald. As training camp approaches, fans will have to hope that all these players actually sign contracts with their respective teams. In this case, Kurt never signed a contract, and simply decided that the XFL wasn’t the best route for him.
What do you think of this news? Do you think Kurt Benkert should have pursued a gig with the league? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!