Why RB Jaden Shirden Deserves An Opportunity To Start

Over the last couple of seasons in the United Football League (UFL), Jaden Shirden has primarily been a rotational/backup running back. He’s been with three teams, including the now-defunct Brahmas and Panthers.

Shirden is the definition of lightning in a bottle. He’s a small back, at just 5’8” – but don’t let that fool you. He’s got unbelievable speed, running an impressive 4.45 40 yard dash at the NFL combine in 2024.

Jaden spent the majority of his college career at Monmouth University. He excelled there, rushing for almost 3,700 yards and 26 touchdowns across three seasons. In 2023, he earned Walter Camp Foundation FCS Player of the Year honors.

After a quick stint with the Carolina Panthers in 2024, Jaden found himself in the UFL with the Michigan Panthers. Despite tough competition, he made the 50 man roster in Michigan. Shirden emerged in week three, replacing an injured Matt Colburn. He broke loose for a 43 yard touchdown – hitting a ridiculous spin move that caught some national media attention.

However, Shirden saw his minutes decrease once Toa Taua was re-signed to the roster. Because Jaden was new to the pro scene, he was still acclimating into his new role as a rotational piece – something he wasn’t used to given his background at Monmouth, being RB1.

Jaden was eventually released from Michigan once Colburn was re-activated. He was scooped up by the San Antonio Brahmas, who utilized him sparingly the final few weeks. Shirden showcased his special teams capabilities, with nine kick returns for 269 yards across the final three games.

In 2026, Jaden Shirden landed with the Louisville Kings. Between a room that featured Benny Snell, James Robinson, and Ian Wheeler – it was difficult for the smaller back to crack the rotation. Early on, he was one of the UFL’s leading kick returners, with 15 KR’s for 370 yards on the year. However, even that role diminished once Tyler Hudson emerged as a star.

Shirden didn’t run the ball much this year, but when given opportunities, he thrived. In week 10, Jaden rushed for 53 yards and two touchdowns on just 12 carries. His dynamic burst really is second to none at this level.

To continue to move forward in his professional career, Jaden Shirden needs to develop a bit more into a complete player – so teams have no excuses not to roster him on gameday. He’s already proven himself as a rusher and a special teams contributor. We’re all aware of his playmaking in those categories. However, if he can show growth as a pass catcher coming out of the backfield, and also learn how to chip and block at an efficient rate, it’ll help his odds of sticking in the UFL for years to come.

There’s no doubt about it: Jaden Shirden is electric with the ball in his hands. Whether it be with Louisville, or another team in 2027, hopefully we will see the former Monmouth star given the proper reps to showcase his elite talents. Even if he isn’t RB1, Jaden has done more than enough to earn a quality RB2 role within the United Football League.

Did you enjoy watching Jaden Shirden the last couple of years? Does he deserve a starting role in 2027? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!