It’s been a flurry of moves from the Arlington Renegades over the last week. Yesterday, the team re-signed WR Isaiah Winstead and OL Marcus Minor, which comes just days after bringing back several other key pieces from the 2024 UFL season.
The #UFL has announced the following transactions pic.twitter.com/c88It9qeTH
— UFL Communications Department (@UFL_PR) October 1, 2024
WR Isaiah Winstead
Isaiah Winstead was an interesting story in the UFL this season. He was featured in seven games, but started just one of them. During that time, he racked up 12 receptions for 175 yards, and two touchdowns. Isaiah was the first WR to score a touchdown in the UFL, with his deep touchdown courtesy of Luis Perez.
FIRST TOUCHDOWN OF THE #UFL.
Luis Perez finds Isaiah Winstead with a beautiful ball, and the @XFLRenegades take a 10-3 lead.
Perez has now thrown the first TD in the USFL, XFL (3.0), and UFL.pic.twitter.com/R6yI6D82zL
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) March 30, 2024
At 6’3”, 213lbs., Isaiah is a physical receiver who isn’t afraid to use his size to make a play. His physicality was on full display throughout the year – but Winstead also showcased his ability to beat defenders over the top.
His UFL success led to an NFL stint with the New York Jets this past preseason. After his release, he now finds his way back to Arlington. Winstead is the type of prospect who could have a breakout campaign with the Renegades in 2025, if given the opportunity to see more consistent reps from week to week. He was excellent when his name was called upon in 2024.
— Isaiah Winstead 🧛🏾♂️ (@Zayti99y_) June 2, 2024
OL Marcus Minor
One of the Renegades’ stronger position groups in 2024 was their offensive line. They did provide Luis Perez with impressive protection, allowing for all of the success he saw through the air.
Marcus Minor was an offseason addition to this Arlington unit, and ended up starting in all nine games he played in this year. Marcus primarily played at left guard for Arlington. He had a 60.8 Pass Blocking Grade, alongside a 49.9 Run Blocking Grade, via PFF. After committing three penalties in his first four games, Minor avoided being penalized the final five games of the year.
Having him back in the offensive lineup is excellent news for this Arlington unit. Marcus showed that he belongs at this level, and with another full Training Camp under his belt, could be in store for an even better season in 2025.
General Manager Rick Mueller has all of a sudden gotten very busy in Arlington. This group is ready to turn the tide after a disappointing 3-7 campaign in 2024, and it’s not surprising to see some key pieces returning. Talent was not an issue for Arlington – it was a lack of execution.
What are your thoughts on Isaiah Winstead and Marcus Minor coming back to the Arlington Renegades? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
