KaVontae Turpin is a name many are becoming familiar with, due to his exceptional outing in 2022 with the USFL. Turpin was a wide receiver for the New Jersey Generals, and led the league in receiving yards with 540.
The USFL's MVP just signed a THREE YEAR deal with the Dallas Cowboys.
Spring. Football. Matters. I've watched @KaVontaeTurpin hop from league to league. Dominated in the FCF, TSL, ELF, and the #USFL. Now, the whole world is going to know his name. pic.twitter.com/MYCaGrQyxH
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) July 28, 2022
On top of that, he ended up winning USFL MVP – playing an integral role in the Generals’ nine game win streak. His ability to impact the game in so many ways isn’t common, and it’s why NFL teams showed interest. Turpin can also return just as well as he can catch, which was made evident on multiple occasions.
THE MVP WITH THE GO-AHEAD TOUCHDOWN ‼️🏆
What a run by @KaVontaeTurpin
📺: @FOXSports pic.twitter.com/LNUy5c5iit
— New Jersey Generals (@USFLGenerals) June 25, 2022
After his tenure with New Jersey, it was no surprise to see Turpin sign a contract with the Dallas Cowboys. Since arriving at training camp, he has been proving his worth to the team – and might just do enough to make the 53 man roster.
Training Camp Success
So far, the scrappy receiver has been putting on a show. Dallas has continued to get Turpin more and more involved with offensive schemes – whether it’s taking end arounds, returning punts, or even catching deep balls.
WR KaVontae Turpin with the burst after the catch. !!!!!#DallasCowboys #CowboysNation pic.twitter.com/DlFfZ9oUWm
— JOSE ALVARES (@Alvaresjose11) August 8, 2022
Most recently, he has impressed in the team’s one-on-one’s with the Los Angeles Chargers. On a crucial fourth down, KaVontae made an incredible catch to keep the drive alive. His emotion after the play goes to show the passion he has for the game – and what he’s willing to do to pursue his dreams.
Set your ⏰ s. It’s #TurpinTime.@KaVontaeTurpin | #DALvsLAC pic.twitter.com/X2AJLiHaYt
— Dallas Cowboys (@dallascowboys) August 17, 2022
KaVontae is obviously very confident in his abilities – and for good reason. He’s been waiting for an opportunity to showcase his talents to the world, and is now shining with the Dallas Cowboys.
When asked about his smaller size, Turpin said this:
“Speed kills. That’s what I do…With my speed, I feel like guys can’t check me. They can’t do anything with me…I can catch, too. This is what I do. I’ve played this game my whole life. I’m just glad God blessed me with this talent to come out here and show people what I can do.”
KaVontae Turpin pic.twitter.com/Jg0IWcgoBy
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) August 8, 2022
While it isn’t a guarantee for Turpin to make the regular season roster, it’s looking better and better with each passing day. Head Coach Mike McCarthy has spoken very highly of him since his arrival, and is clearly impressed with his unique skill set.
Turpin – A Spring Ball Journeyman
For KaVontae, it’s been a long road to get to where he’s at. In 2021, Turpin played literally everywhere he could. First, he exceeded expectations in Fan Controlled Football during their inaugural season, which put him on the map.
The Glacier Boy Leap⬆️ Is a thing😎 #IcedOut💎 @KaVontaeTurpin pic.twitter.com/2s8BUfRqDz
— Glacier Boyz (@FCFGlacierBoyz) March 8, 2021
Turpin then performed quite well in The Spring League, playing with DeAndre Johnson for the Sea Lions. Interestingly enough, the two athletes reunited in the USFL with New Jersey.
This is the ability that De’Andre Johnson flashes from time to time. Hits KaVontae Turpin in stride deep down the field.
Beautiful placement, touch, and great deep ball ability. pic.twitter.com/IxSlUBcmq0
— John Vogel (@DraftVogel) June 13, 2021
After those American stints, Turpin traveled overseas and joined the Wroclaw Panthers – making an immediate impact.
Is @KaVontaeTurpin the best mid season addition in the league? 🐾 #HSDvsWPA @PanthersWroclaw pic.twitter.com/xVpgZR14Cw
— European League of Football (@ELF_Official) August 25, 2021
Of course, KaVontae Turpin ended up in the USFL, and the rest is history. He earned All-USFL honors, as both a receiver and return specialist. His dominance in the USFL was certainly not a fluke, as his record proves that he’s done this at every level he’s participated in.
What Does KaVontae’s Future Hold?
Considering how well things are going at the moment, Dallas will have to seriously consider Turpin as a legitimate NFL threat heading into the 2022 season. He can open up their playbook in multiple ways, and provides a new element that isn’t present with their current lineup of receivers.
Pop pass to Kavontae Turpin. Beep. Beep.#DallasCowboys pic.twitter.com/5dKwfie4S8
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) August 8, 2022
We thoroughly enjoyed watching Turpin play in the United States Football League this season, and hope to see him on an NFL field this fall. Had it not been for the national platform the USFL provided KaVontae with, who knows if this opportunity would have presented itself.
Clearly, the NFL was tuning in all year long. You can stay up to date on all USFL to NFL signings with our official tracker.
Did you enjoy watching KaVontae Turpin in the USFL? Do you think he can stick with the Dallas Cowboys? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!