With about a week left in UFL Training Camp until cuts are made, the Dallas Renegades are still putting the pieces together. It’s been an enjoyable process for Rick Neuheisel and his staff so far, as they figure things out ahead of kickoff.
We got to catch up with Coach Neuheisel and Offensive Coordinator Noel Mazzone this week, to learn more about where the Renegades stand. Coach Mazzone is excited about their offense, with the “willing” and “experienced” players they have rostered:
“Our offense is experienced. I love their energy right now. They’re all very willing participants in this thing. I’m excited about these guys. Really like our receiving core, we’ve got seven guys who can all play out there.”
Neuheisel echoed the same sentiment. The veteran coach has been learning a few new things in the UFL, with various rule changes and adjustments to the game. This week, the Renegades have been focusing in on third down situations, two minute drills, and goal line integrity.
“I told the team today, I’m thrilled to be here. I’m enjoying it immensely. We’ve got a number of good football players, but maybe more importantly, we’ve got all kinds of winning personalities. That makes it an enjoyable process. We’re always piecing together situational football. It might not look like a complete deal at the time…but all the different things that go into a full football game, that’s what we’re trying to put together. In terms of the progress being made, we’re elated.” – Coach Neuheisel
Quarterbacks remain a big question mark for this organization. With Luis Perez back in the saddle, many expect the veteran to be the starting signal caller. There’s good reason to believe that, given his past accolades.
That said, Rick and Noel both have high praise for Luke Lehnen and Austin Reed. They’re two youngsters who have a knack for the game, both as willing learners and athletes in their own regards. Rick has also hinted at getting all three of them playing time throughout the season.
“Every year, with these leagues, it’s like how many coordinators have these guys had? They learn all these different systems. But they’ve all picked up this system really well. We’ve got a lot of read and react plays. RPO’s, tempo-involved. The best thing about the two young guys, they love football. They love to work, and they both have experience – and they love football.” – Coach Mazzone
Coach Neuheisel has particularly enjoyed working with Perez. His attention to detail is second to none, and he’s got the ability to coach up players while on the field, which adds another element to what Dallas can accomplish offensively:
“Luis is as close to a player-coach as you’ll find. He’s extremely bright. Sometimes, that intelligence can take you too far, where you’re overthinking things. He’s a chess man. If he’s got the chalk last, he’s going to be right. He’s been fun to coach.”
Last year, the Renegades struggled to see consistent play out of their offensive line. This was partially due to injuries, while a couple of players were simply getting a bit up there in age.
The 2026 season should tell a different story. This unit has an excellent balance between veterans, pieces with UFL experience, and younger talent who have flashed potential. Neuheisel specifically mentioned that Alex Akingbulu, Sam Tecklenburg, and Mike Novitsky have all been very impressive in camp thus far.
“I love how our offensive line is looking. It’s been fun to have. We’ve got a lot of talented guys, we’ve got leadership, and a lot of experience in that group. We have some serious depth, too. Right now, we haven’t lost a game yet, so we’re feeling good about life.” – Noel Mazzone
It’s going to be a difficult week ahead for the Dallas Renegades. Particularly, Rick Neuheisel and Noel Mazzone will have tough decisions on their hands. By March 19th, Dallas will need to cut down to 50 players for the regular season.
This is a date that Rick Neuheisel is not looking forward to, having only done this once before in the AAF with the Arizona Hotshots:
“I’ve only had to cut players twice. Once for the Alliance, and now once for this. It’s miserable. But, I’ve told them all, that if they’re not on the 50 man roster with us, they’ve got a chance to land with another team. If they don’t, then they need to still practice and stay ready, almost as if they’re on a practice squad with us. They’re the guys I’m going to call. They know our systems, and I know what kind of character they have. It’s a terrible day from a standpoint of not getting to keep everyone, but I think we have the right attitudes about it. They’ll use it constructively.”
The Dallas Renegades will kick off their season at home, hosting the Houston Gamblers on March 28th. To catch their opener, secure your Renegades tickets here.
Are you excited for Dallas Renegades football this spring? Who should Dallas start at quarterback? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
