One rather interesting storyline this season: the Houston Roughnecks have just signed TE A.J. Lewis, who was eligible to be drafted in the NFL draft this year.
The United Football League has announced the following transactions: pic.twitter.com/47I8SeeNx9
— UFL Communications Department (@UFL_PR) May 1, 2024
A.J. Lewis joins the Roughnecks, due to a season ending injury to TE Woody Brandom. Lewis is an intriguing prospect out of Alabama State, who just wrapped up his college season not too long ago.
Lewis began his college career at Troy. He played at the school for five years, totaling 151 receiving yards and five touchdowns.
Former Troy 3⭐️ TE AJ Lewis Has #Committed & #Signed With Alabama State, Per @BamaStateFB .
@DaReal_84 pic.twitter.com/1hr0VEj7wJ
— LIGHT ON COLLEGE SPORTS (@LightOnSports) February 2, 2023
After moving to Alabama State, A.J. posted 50 yards on four receptions during his senior season. He’s primarily a blocking tight end, which is exactly what Houston needs, since Brandom is out.
Since A.J. went undrafted, it appears that he’ll be kickstarting his professional career in the UFL. This is fantastic for the league, and hopefully we see more young prospects giving spring football a chance to jumpstart their careers.
Woody Brandom To IR
It’s really unfortunate to see Woody Brandom out for the year, having suffered a broken fibula during week five’s matchup against Birmingham.
News: @XFLRoughnecks starting TE Woody Brandom is out for the remainder of the #UFL season.
Absolutely hate to see Brandom suffer the injury he did yesterday (broken fibula). His presence as a blocker and occasional pass catcher will be missed in Houston. pic.twitter.com/Xx0i6p4iht
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) April 28, 2024
Woody was a starter for Houston, but was utilized as a blocking tight end. He only recorded one catch for 11 yards this year. That said, his presence up front was incredibly important to Curtis Johnson’s offensive schemes.
According to PFF, Woody had positive 71.2 Pass Blocking/61.6 Run Blocking grades. He will be missed, and we’re wishing the former New Jersey General a healthy and speedy recovery.
Final Thoughts
The Houston Roughnecks have some major problems that run deeper than injuries. They’re 1-4 this season, and their only win is against the winless Arlington Renegades.
Houston will have to hope that they can find a way to put something together this weekend, but it feels unlikely. They’ll be facing off against the red hot Battlehawks, in St. Louis.
What are your thoughts on A.J. Lewis signing with the Houston Roughnecks? Will we see more NFL Draft prospects sign UFL contracts? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
