Folks, Christmas is nearly upon us. You know what that means: gifts, upon gifts, upon gifts. Since we’re on the topic, the USFL proved that they possess some of the most gifted athletes in the country. It was a spectacular debut season for the league, as fans were treated to excitement week in and week out.
Season 1️⃣ was special. But Season 2️⃣ …🤫👀 pic.twitter.com/tHqVFTWRrE
— USFL (@USFL) November 29, 2022
Spring football is giving us plenty to look forward to. The USFL is currently headed towards a monumental season two – kickoff can’t come fast enough.
While we wait, let’s take a look at some of the USFL’s best athletes from season one.
KaVontae Turpin | New Jersey Generals
Well, this one is obvious. The MVP of the USFL – and now, an NFL Pro-Bowler, KaVontae Turpin. Turpin was electrifying in the USFL during the 2022 season.
BREAKING: Kavonte Turpin, #USFL MVP, has made it to his first NFL #ProBowl with the Dallas Cowboys. Hard work, determination – and – OPPORTUNITY – pays off. The USFL is proving that spring football matters. You love to see it. pic.twitter.com/IBOUlHc2O4
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) December 22, 2022
At this point, everyone knows just how special Turpin is. He led the USFL in receiving yards, was an All-USFL specialist/WR, and dominated across the board. His sheer explosiveness, paired with sly elusiveness, makes him into a nightmare for any opposing defense.
Ladies and gentlemen: Your @USFL 2022 MVP: @KaVontaeTurpin. What an absolute baller. Turpin was sensational from start to finish for the @USFLGenerals. He played so many different roles – and was elite in every single one. Well deserved MVP! #USFLpic.twitter.com/MYCaGryXG9
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) June 22, 2022
Due to his sensational performances in the USFL, Turpin landed himself an NFL gig with the Dallas Cowboys. Keep an eye on KaVontae as the Cowboys head towards the postseason.
Reggie Corbin | Michigan Panthers
Reggie Corbin is a beast. He was the heart and soul of Michigan’s offense in 2022. Despite the team struggling to find a way to win, Corbin always put his best foot forward on the field.
It's still bizarre to me that @ReggieCorbin isn't in the NFL, and wasn't even given a call for training camp. He did everything you could've asked of him – and more – in the #USFL this season. Multiple NFL teams should be bringing in Corbin ASAP.pic.twitter.com/fBYoeezoOv
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) August 26, 2022
Corbin finished the season with 519 rushing yards, and two touchdowns. He also set the USFL record for the longest touchdown of the season: 88 yards. Reggie is such a talented athlete, and the Panthers are lucky to have him on their roster.
Case Cookus | Philadelphia Stars
The Chef is one special dude. Case Cookus was cooking hot for the Philadelphia Stars, leading them to a Championship in their debut season.
🌟 @CaptainCookus10 gave it his all in the championship game 💪 pic.twitter.com/JRyIcySObY
— Philadelphia Stars (@USFLStars) July 5, 2022
What makes Cookus so effective is the efficiency he provides to any team he is a part of. Case was very accurate with the football in the USFL, showcasing exceptional ball placement all over the field. His disposition as a signal caller is immaculate.
INCREDIBLE THROW, INCREDIBLE CATCH 🤯
Take a bow @captaincookus10 and @iamprowells
📺: @FOXSports pic.twitter.com/3V0hsZFCbT
— Philadelphia Stars (@USFLStars) June 5, 2022
When Case is at the helm, Bart Andrus has the full playbook at his disposal. Cookus has signed with the Los Angeles Rams since recovering from his leg injury, and is currently on their practice squad.
Chris Odom | Houston Gamblers
The USFL’s defensive player of the year was something else in 2022. Chris Odom is a freak of nature, absolutely dominating opposing offensive lines all season long. He led the USFL with twelve sacks, putting up ridiculous stat lines every week.
Chris Odom leads the league with ELEVEN sacks! Watch them all here 😤@Chrisodom98 | #ALLIN 🎲 pic.twitter.com/cFRuwjIzIs
— Houston Gamblers (@USFLGamblers) June 8, 2022
Odom made his presence known across the board. He blocked multiple field goals, forced several fumbles, and created havoc on a consistent basis.
Chris Odom making another huge play? Who would've seen that one coming. Seriously, this guy has to be in an NFL camp in a few weeks. Absolutely deserves it. pic.twitter.com/rM1f3Cwou8
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) June 20, 2022
His DPOY outing earned himself a preseason gig with the Cleveland Browns. Unfortunately, he tore his ACL in preseason – but is expected to rejoin the team after he recovers.
Sal Cannella | New Orleans Breakers
Speaking of dominant, Sal Cannella was sensational for New Orleans. He was the best tight end in the league, torching defenses in his sleep. It didn’t matter who was in at quarterback, Cannella was bound to find the football one way or another.
.@salnells gets us on the board first‼️🌊
📺: @FOXSports pic.twitter.com/Fh7pU8Rrte
— New Orleans Breakers (@USFLBreakers) June 12, 2022
In the semi-finals, Cannella set the league record for most receiving yards in a game, with 135. On top of that, he continued to contribute across the board as a blocker and facilitator.
Cannella had a stint with the Green Bay Packers, but was released just before the NFL season started. Sal will likely play for the Arlington Renegades in the XFL in 2023.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, there were hundreds of outstanding athletes in the USFL. The good news: plenty more will be joining the league for season two!
We can’t wait to see what the USFL accomplishes in 2023 and beyond. As of right now, though, it’s time to open some gifts! Merry Christmas, Newsroom.
Who are some of your favorite USFL athletes? Which players were the most dominant in 2022? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord or Mastodon!
