Birmingham Iron Best Players of All Time

John Rizzo

The Birmingham Iron were a professional American football team based in Birmingham, Alabama that competed as part of the Alliance of American Football (AAF). Founded by NFL Hall-of-Famer Bill Polian, they played their home games at Legion Field and became one of eight teams to compete during the AAF’s lone season. Despite having an impressive offense led by quarterback Luis Perez and strong presence on defense thanks to defensive end Jamar Summers, the Iron ultimately failed to make it into the playoffs before folding alongside other members due to financial struggles.

Table of Contents

1. Luis Perez

Los Angeles Rams

Luis Perez Career

  • High school: Otay Ranch, (Chula Vista, California)
  • College: , Southwestern (2013–2014),, Texas A&M–Commerce (2015–2017)
  • Undrafted: 2018
  • Los Angeles Rams (2018)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), Philadelphia Eagles (2019)*, Detroit Lions (2019)*, Los Angeles Wildcats (2020)*, New York Guardians (2020), TSL Jousters (2021), New Jersey Generals (2022), Los Angeles Rams (2022)*, Vegas Vipers (2023–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Active
  • USFL passer rating leader (2022), USFL completion percentage leader (2022), Harlon Hill Trophy (2017), NCAA Division II national champion (2017), First-team All-American (2017), First-team All-Lone Star Conference (2016, 2017)

Luis Perez attended Otay Ranch High School in Chula Vista, California. Perez played quarterback for Southwestern and Texas A&M–Commerce before being undrafted in 2018.

As a senior at TAMU-Commerce, Perez led the team to an 8-4 record and was named second-team All-American by College Football Performance Awards (CFPA). 

In his three years as a starter at TAMU-Commerce, Luis threw for over 10,000 yards with 68 touchdowns against just 16 interceptions while completing 61 percent of his passes each season.

After going unselected in the 2018 NFL Draft, Perez signed with the Vegas Vipers of the Alliance of American Football (AAF) on May 1st Perez was a two-time NCAA Division II national champion and USFL passer rating leader. 

Perez also finished as the league's top completion percentage quarterback in both of his seasons with the Los Angeles Rams. 

In addition, Perez has been honored with a Harlon Hill Trophy (2017) and First-team All-American accolades from multiple outlets during his career so far.

2. Xzavier Dickson

Alabama Crimson Tide football

Xzavier Dickson Career

  • High school: Griffin (GA)
  • College: Alabama
  • NFL Draft: 2015 / Round: 7 / Pick: 253
  • New England Patriots (2015)*, Atlanta Falcons (2015)*, Edmonton Eskimos (2016)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), Massachusetts Pirates (2020)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • BCS national champion (2012, 2013)

Dickson was drafted in the seventh round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns. Dickson played college football at Alabama, where he won two SEC championships and a national championship.

Dickson is a linebacker who has been primarily used as a reserve player for the Browns since being drafted. Xzavier Dickson is a former BC receiver who was drafted by the Patriots in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL Draft.

He has spent time with both New England and Atlanta, but is currently on injured reserve with the Falcons. In college at Clemson, Dickson caught 201 passes for 2,521 yards and 21 touchdowns over three seasons. 

As a return man he averaged 27 punt returns for 758 yards (17th best in NCAA history) and two touchdowns as well as averaging 10 kick returns for 214 yards (14th best).

Xzavier Dickson will look to make an impact when he comes back from injury this season with either the Patriots or Falcons.

3. J.C. Hassenauer

Pittsburgh Steelers

J.C. Hassenauer Career

  • High school: East Ridge (Woodbury, Minnesota)
  • College: Alabama
  • Undrafted: 2018
  • Atlanta Falcons (2018)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), Pittsburgh Steelers (2019–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Active
  • 2× CFP national champion (2015, 2017)
  • Games played: 30, Games started: 8
  • Games played: 30
  • Games started: 8

J.C. Hassenauer has spent the past four years playing for the Alabama Crimson Tide and is likely to be a first-round pick in next year's NFL Draft. 

At 6' 2" and 295 pounds, he is an imposing figure on the offensive line, capable of controlling defenders at both the center position and guard spot.

He was born in 1995, making him one of the youngest players in this year's draft class - but he doesn't show any signs of slowing down anytime soon. 

J.C.'s father played football at Minnesota State University Moorhead and his older brother also plays professional football overseas, so it seems natural that J C would follow suit into pro sports himself.

The Pittsburgh Steelers selected him with their 60th overall selection in 2020 - a very impressive choice given his potential as a centre fielder.

Also Played For: alliance of american football

4. Bradley Sylve

Alabama Crimson Tide football

Career

  • High school: South Plaquemines High School
  • College: Alabama
  • Undrafted: 2016
  • Buffalo Bills (2017)*, New Orleans Saints (2017)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), DC Defenders (2020), Los Angeles Wildcats (2020), Philadelphia Stars (2022–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Inactive

Bradley Sylve was a highly touted cornerback coming out of high school and played for the Alabama Crimson Tide before being undrafted in 2016. Sylve has spent most of his career playing for the Philadelphia Stars, where he is currently their No.

3 corner. Sylve is known as a physical defender who loves to make plays on the ball, which has led to him accumulating over 100 tackles in each of his three seasons with Philadelphia. 

Sylve is set to become a free agent at the end of this season and will likely be looking for another team that can give him an opportunity to play regularly on defense.

If he does find himself without a club next year, it's possible that Bradley Sylve could turn his attention towards making some noise in the NFL draft or signing with another professional football league overseas.

Also Played For: dc defenders, los angeles wildcats

5. Cole Mazza

Alabama Crimson Tide football

Career

  • High school: Liberty High School, (Bakersfield, California)
  • College: Alabama
  • Position: Long snapper
  • Undrafted: 2017
  • Birmingham Iron (2019), Los Angeles Chargers (2019–2020)
  • CFP national champion (2015)
  • Games played: 32, Total tackles: 5
  • Games played: 32
  • Total tackles: 5

Cole Mazza is a long snapper for the Oakland Raiders. Mazza was undrafted in 2017 but signed with the team later that year. He has previously played for the Alabama Crimson Tide and Liberty High School in Bakersfield, California.

Mazza has been described as having strong fundamentals and excellent anticipation skills. In his rookie season with the Raiders, he made seven regular-season appearances and one playoff appearance before being released at the end of 2018 season due to injury Cole Mazza is a talented linebacker who has excelled at the college level.

He was one of the key players on the University of Alabama's national championship team in 2015. Cole Mazza should have no trouble slotting into the Chargers' lineup next season and could be a productive contributor for Los Angeles.

6. Brandon Greene

Alabama Crimson Tide football

Brandon Greene Career

  • High school: Cedar Grove, (Ellenwood, Georgia)
  • College: Alabama
  • Undrafted: 2017
  • Chicago Bears (2017), Birmingham Iron (2019), Carolina Panthers (2019)

Brandon Greene was born on March 1, 1994 in Ellenwood, Georgia. He played football and basketball at Cedar Grove High School before committing to play for the University of Alabama.

After redshirting his freshman season, he became a starter as a sophomore and helped lead the Crimson Tide to their first ever BCS National Championship game appearance in 2011. 

As a junior in 2012, Greene led Alabama with nine sacks while being named First-team All-American by both The Sporting News and College Football News magazine.

In 2013, he opted to enter the NFL Draft but was selected by the Indianapolis Colts with the 60th overall pick (the second highest selection of his career). 

After playing sparingly during his rookie campaign due to injury, Greene appeared in 12 games as a reserve tackle for Indy last year before joining Baltimore this offseason on a three-year deal worth $10 million ($5 million guaranteed).

Brandon is known for his athleticism and strength at offensive tackle which has earned him comparisons to Eagles' superstar Jason Peters; however he has also been criticized for not having great footwork or technique when pass blocking against speed rushers off the edge.

7. Joshua Frazier

Pittsburgh Steelers

Career

  • High school: Har-Ber (Springdale, Arkansas)
  • College: Alabama
  • NFL Draft: 2018 / Round: 7 / Pick: 246
  • Pittsburgh Steelers (2018)*, Detroit Lions (2018)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), Orlando Guardians (2023–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Active
  • 2× CFP national champion (2015, 2017)

Joshua Frazier was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 7th round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Frazier played college football at Alabama, where he started all 42 games over his three-year career.

He has been a nose tackle for the Orlando Guardians since 2019 and recorded 16 tackles in 8 games this season. Joshua Frazier is 27 years old and stands 6' 3" tall with a weight of 307 pounds. Joshua Frazier is a talented cornerback who has both the size and athleticism to excel in the NFL.

He was one of two finalists for the 2017 Jim Thorpe Award, which is given annually to the best defensive back in college football. 

Frazier started all 13 games as a sophomore at Alabama and recorded 43 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 2 sacks. The Lions selected him with their third-round pick (83rd overall) in the 2018 draft.

He spent his rookie season on Detroit's practice squad before being signed by Birmingham as an undrafted free agent in 2019.

8. Quan Bray

Montreal Alouettes

Quan Bray Career

  • High school: LaGrange (GA) Troup Co.
  • College: Auburn
  • Undrafted: 2015
  • Indianapolis Colts (2015–2017), Buffalo Bills (2017–2018)*, Houston Texans (2018)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), Montreal Alouettes (2019–2022), Ottawa Redblacks (2022–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Active
  • CFL status: American
  • Receptions: 6, Receiving yards: 75, Return yards: 1,545, Total touchdowns: 0
  • Receptions: 6
  • Receiving yards: 75
  • Return yards: 1,545
  • Total touchdowns: 0

Quan Bray is a wide receiver with the Ottawa Redblacks in the CFL. He was undrafted out of Auburn but had success playing for the Indianapolis Colts and Buffalo Bills in the NFL before joining the CFL team this season.

Quan Bray stands at 5'10" tall and weighs 184 pounds. His parents are originally from Georgia, so he has strong ties to that state as well as his native Canada where he currently resides. Quan Bray's main focus is basketball but he also enjoys running track and field events when time allows.

Quan Bray is the most experienced receiver on the Houston Texans, having played in over 100 games in his NFL career. 

He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 4th round of the 2012 NFL Draft and spent time with both Jacksonville and Cleveland before signing with Houston as a free agent in 2017.

While he may not have had huge statistical numbers through his first three seasons with Houston (41 receptions for 551 yards and one touchdown), Quan Bray has been a big contributor to their offence since joining them full-time in 2018 - averaging 74 catches for 983 yards and six touchdowns per season so far.

With DeAndre Hopkins likely leaving via free agency at some point this offseason, Bray will be an important part of whoever takes over as Houston's number one receiver next season.

9. Quinton Patton

San Francisco 49ers

Quinton Patton Career

  • High school: La Vergne (TN)
  • College: Louisiana Tech
  • NFL Draft: 2013 / Round: 4 / Pick: 128
  • San Francisco 49ers (2013–2016), New York Jets (2017)*, Birmingham Iron (2019)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • 2× First-team All-WAC (2011, 2012)
  • Receptions: 73, Receiving yards: 880, Rushing yards: 51, Return yards: 199, Total touchdowns: 1
  • Receptions: 73
  • Receiving yards: 880
  • Rushing yards: 51
  • Return yards: 199
  • Total touchdowns: 1

Quinton Patton played wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers from 2013 to 2016. He was drafted by the team in the fourth round of the 2013 NFL Draft and played with them until 2016.

Patton has also played for the Tennessee Titans (2015) and Indianapolis Colts (2016). In total, he has made 92 receptions for 1,499 yards and six touchdowns in his career so far. Patton was a two-time first-team All-WAC receiver for the New York Jets.

Patton spent time with the Birmingham Iron of the Arena Football League in 2019, but did not record any stats.

Also Played For: louisiana tech university football

10. Amba Etta-Tawo

New York Giants

Career

  • High school: McEachern, (Powder Springs, Georgia)
  • College: Syracuse, Maryland
  • Undrafted: 2017
  • Jacksonville Jaguars (2017)*, Kansas City Chiefs (2017)*, New York Giants (2017–2018)*, Birmingham Iron (2018)*, Houston Texans (2018)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), New York Giants (2019), Ottawa Redblacks (2021)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Suspended
  • CFL status: American
  • First-team All-ACC (2016)

Amba Etta-Tawo was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2017, but did not sign with them. He then signed with the Kansas City Chiefs shortly after. Amba Etta-Tawo is a wide receiver for the Ottawa Redblacks and has been playing in the CFL since 2017.

He first played college football at Syracuse before transferring to Maryland in 2016. Widely considered one of Canada's top receivers, Amba Etta-Tawo had an impressive rookie season for Ottawa in 2018 and looks to continue his development this year. 

Amba Etta-Tawo was originally signed by the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent in May of 2017.

He spent time on their practice squad before joining the Birmingham Iron of the Canadian Football League (CFL) in 2018. 

In his three years with the Iron, he has recorded 137 receptions for 1,670 yards and 14 touchdowns. After spending 2019 with the Giants and 2020 with Ottawa Redblacks, he is scheduled to return to the Iron for 2021 season.

11. Michael Dunn

Cleveland Browns

Career

  • High school: Walt Whitman High School (Bethesda, Maryland)
  • College: Maryland
  • Undrafted: 2017
  • Los Angeles Rams (2017–2018)*, Jacksonville Jaguars (2018)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), Miami Dolphins (2019)*, Seattle Dragons (2020), Cleveland Browns (2020–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Injured reserve
  • Games played: 23, Games started: 3
  • Games played: 23
  • Games started: 3

Michael Dunn is a 28-year-old guard with the Cleveland Browns. He attended Walt Whitman High School in Bethesda, Maryland and played college football at Maryland.

Dunn was undrafted in 2017 but signed on with the Rams later that year before being released after one season. In 2018, he joined the Browns and has been playing well so far this season.

Dunn, who played for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2018 and Birmingham Iron in 2019, was injured during the preseason and is currently on IR. Dunn had a productive career at Alabama where he accumulated 69 total tackles, 3 sacks, 1 interception and 2 fumble recoveries over his three seasons with the Crimson Tide.

Dunn attended junior college before transferring to Alabama and should be an interesting addition to any team looking for a strong safety prospect with experience playing in big games.

12. Jack Tocho

NC State Wolfpack football

Jack Tocho Career

  • High school: Independence, (Charlotte, North Carolina)
  • College: NC State
  • NFL Draft: 2017 / Round
  • Minnesota Vikings (2017–2018)*, Washington Redskins (2018)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), Pittsburgh Steelers (2019)*, Los Angeles Wildcats (2020), Philadelphia Stars (2022–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Did not report

At 6'0", 202 pounds, Jack Tocho is a safety who played college football at NC State. He was drafted in the 7th round by the Philadelphia Stars of the Women's Football Alliance in 2017.

In his rookie season with the Stars, he made 3 interceptions and led all rookies in tackles (27). In 2018, Jack Tocho moved to the Philadelphia Force of the Arena Football League where he helped lead them to their 2nd championship title as a starting safety with 4 interceptions.

Jack Tocho is a promising defensive lineman who has shown flashes of brilliance in his short career. The Vikings selected Tocho with the thirteenth overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, and he has made an immediate impact on their defense. 

He was named to the Pro Football Focus team's "All-Rookie Second Team" after recording 36 tackles, 2 sacks, and 1 forced fumble in 16 games as a rookie.

In 2018, Tocho recorded 48 tackles (third on the team), 3 sacks (tied for second), and 2 interceptions while starting all 16 games for Minnesota; he also earned PFF's "Second-Team All-Pro" accolade. 

The Vikings placed Tocho on injured reserve earlier this year due to a neck injury, but they are expected to bring him back at some point during the 2019 season assuming he recovers fully from his injury.

Also Played For: philadelphia stars

13. Casey Sayles

Ohio Bobcats football

Casey Sayles Career

  • Status: Active
  • CFL status: American
  • Position(s): Defensive tackle
  • Height: 6 ft 3 in (191 cm)
  • Weight: 289 lb (131 kg)
  • College: Ohio Bobcats
  • High school: Omaha North
  • NFL draft: 2017 / Undrafted
  • Grey Cup champion (2021)

Casey Sayles was drafted by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the 2017 CFL Draft, but did not sign with them. He then attended Ohio Bobcats before transferring to Nebraska Cornhuskers and playing his final season there in 2020.

Casey Sayles is a defensive tackle who stands at 6'3" and weighs 289 lbs. He played college football at Ohio Bobcats before transferring to Nebraska where he started all 14 of their games in 2020.

Recording 37 tackles (21 solo) and 2 sacks while helping lead the Huskers to an 11-3 record en route to a Big Ten championship game appearance.

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed Casey Sayles as an undrafted free agent on May 9th, 2021, and he has since spent three seasons with the team appearing in 53 regular season games (5 starts), registering 108 tackles (63 solo), 8 sacks, 1 interception, 4 pass deflections and 3 forced fumbles. 

In his rookie year of 2018 he recorded 7 tackles (4 solo) against Montreal Alouettes – one of only two players on the team that day with more than 5 total tackles including 0 interceptions or passes defended).

14. Devin Taylor

Detroit Lions

Devin Taylor Career

  • High school: Beaufort, (Beaufort, South Carolina)
  • College: South Carolina
  • NFL Draft: 2013 / Round: 4 / Pick: 132
  • Detroit Lions (2013–2016), New York Giants (2017), Birmingham Iron (2019), Tampa Bay Vipers (2020)*, Los Angeles Wildcats (2020)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Second-team All-SEC (2010)
  • Total tackles: 93, Sacks: 15.0, Forced fumbles: 4, Fumble recoveries: 0
  • Total tackles: 93
  • Sacks: 15.0
  • Forced fumbles: 4
  • Fumble recoveries: 0

Devin Taylor was drafted by the Detroit Lions in 2013. Devin played for the Detroit Lions from 2013 to 2016. He made 91 tackles, 4 sacks and 2 forced fumbles during his time with the Detroit Lions.

Devin is currently a free agent and is looking for a new team to play for in 2017 season Devin Taylor was a standout linebacker for the New York Giants from 2009-2014. 

He was drafted by the Giants in the third round of the 2009 NFL Draft and spent four seasons with them, amassing 93 tackles, 15 sacks and 4 fumble recoveries.

The 34-year old announced his retirement in February of 2014 after struggling with injuries throughout his career; however he has since signed on as a coaching intern with Birmingham Iron FC in England's Football League 2 division. 

Devin Taylor is an experienced player who will be valuable to any team that drafts him this year or next.

15. Aaron Adeoye

Baltimore Ravens

Career

  • High school: Marion (IL)
  • College: Southeast Missouri State
  • Undrafted: 2016
  • Salina Liberty (2017), Birmingham Iron (2019), Baltimore Ravens (2019–2020), New York Jets (2021)*, Green Bay Packers (2021)*, Birmingham Stallions (2022), Arlington Renegades (2023–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Active
  • Games played: 1
  • Games played: 1

Aaron Adeoye was born on August 26, 1993 in Marion, Illinois. He played high school football at Marion and earned all-conference honors as a linebacker.

After graduation from high school, he attended Southeast Missouri State where he played for two seasons before being undrafted in the 2016 NFL Draft. Aaron is currently playing defensive end with the Arlington Renegades of the Alliance of American Football (AAF).

He has recorded four sacks and 27 tackles in seven games this season for the Renegades. In 2017, Aaron signed with Salina Liberty of the Indoor Football League (IFL) where he totaled eight sacks and 25 tackles over thirteen games Adeoye was drafted in the seventh round of the 2020 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens.

He played college football at Auburn University where he recorded over 1,000 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns on 159 carries during his career. Adeoye is a physical runner who should fit well into Joe Flacco's offense as a backup or third-down back. 

His rookie season with Baltimore was cut short due to an ankle injury but he is expected to be ready for training camp this year.

Also Played For: arlington renegades

16. Chris Davis

Auburn Tigers football

Chris Davis Career

  • High school: Birmingham (AL) Woodlawn
  • College: Auburn
  • Undrafted: 2014
  • San Diego Chargers (2014), San Francisco 49ers (2015–2016), Birmingham Iron (2019)
  • BCS national champion (2010), First-team All-American (2013), Second-team All-SEC (2013), 2011 Chick-fil-A Bowl MVP
  • Total tackles: 19, Sacks: 0.5, Forced fumbles: 1, Interceptions: 0, Return yards: 609, Total touchdowns: 0
  • Total tackles: 19
  • Sacks: 0.5
  • Forced fumbles: 1
  • Interceptions: 0
  • Return yards: 609
  • Total touchdowns: 0

Davis was a standout cornerback for the Auburn Tigers and won the 2009 SEC Championship. He was undrafted in 2014 but signed with the San Diego Chargers.

Davis made his NFL debut with the San Francisco 49ers in 2015 and played there until 2016 when he was traded to the Baltimore Ravens. In 2017, Davis joined the Oakland Raiders where he played two seasons before joining Birmingham Iron this season.

Davis was a two-time national champion and first-team All-American at the University of Arkansas. He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the fifth round of the 2013 NFL Draft, and played his rookie season with them before signing with the Tennessee Titans as a free agent in 2015.

Davis had an excellent debut season with Tennessee, earning Second Team All-NFL honors after leading all league receivers in receptions (106), yards (1,521) and touchdowns (12). 

In 2016 he signed a five year deal worth $45 million to stay with the Titans but missed most of 2017 due to injury; he finished that season having caught just 47 passes for 594 yards and three touchdowns.

17. Nick Novak

Los Angeles Chargers

Nick Novak Career

  • High school: Albemarle, (Charlottesville, Virginia)
  • College: Maryland
  • Undrafted: 2005
  • Chicago Bears (2005)*, Dallas Cowboys (2005)*, Washington Redskins (2005), Arizona Cardinals (2005), Washington Redskins (2006), Cologne Centurions (2007), Kansas City Chiefs (2008), San Diego Chargers (2010)*, Florida Tuskers (2010), New York Jets (2011)*, San Diego Chargers (2011–2014), Houston Texans (2015–2016), Los Angeles Chargers (2017), Birmingham Iron (2019), Los Angeles Wildcats (2020)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • San Diego/LA Chargers 2010s All-Decade Team, 2× First-team All-ACC (2002, 2003), 2004 ACC Jim Tatum Award Recipient and University of Maryland Lefrak Scholar, UFL Special Teams Most Valuable Player (2010), UFL Record 54-yard field goal
  • Field goals made: 182, Field goals attempted: 222, Field goal %: 82.0, Longest field goal: 53, Extra points: 256 / 263, NFL career scoring leaders: 802 points (94th)
  • Field goals made: 182
  • Field goals attempted: 222
  • Field goal %: 82.0
  • Longest field goal: 53
  • Extra points: 256 / 263
  • NFL career scoring leaders: 802 points (94th)

Nick Novak is a kicker for the Chargers, who drafted him in 2005. He was with the Redskins from 2005-2014, and made 127 of his 194 career field goals during that time.

In 2014, he signed with the Chargers and has been their primary kicker since then. His biggest achievement to date may be making all four of his kicks in overtime against the Ravens in 2018 - including a game-winning 54-yarder - which secured San Diego's first victory in Baltimore since 1984.

Nick Novak is married with three children, and enjoys spending time outdoors fishing or playing basketball at home with them when he can spare time away from football season Nick Novak was a prolific kicker in the NFL for nearly a decade, playing for five different teams. 

He won two Jim Tatum Awards as ACC scholar-athlete of the year and was voted UFL MVP in 2010.

Novak is most known for his long field goals, but he also kicked some touchbacks and made clutch kicks during his career.

18. Braedon Bowman

New York Jets

Career

  • High school: Skyline (Mesa, Arizona)
  • College: South Alabama
  • Undrafted: 2016
  • Jacksonville Jaguars (2016)*, New York Jets (2016), New Orleans Saints (2017)*, Los Angeles Chargers (2017–2018)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), New Jersey Generals (2022–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Active

Braedon Bowman is a tight end for the New Jersey Generals in the Arena Football League. He was undrafted but has played in 10 games over two seasons. Braedon attended Skyline High School in Mesa, Arizona and starred as a defensive lineman and linebacker before switching to tight end his senior year.

Bowman finished college at South Alabama where he started all 12 of his appearances as a junior and then led the team with 63 receptions for 836 yards (17.1 avg) and nine touchdowns during his final season as a redshirt senior in 2016. 

The 28-year-old will enter the AFL offseason looking to put together another strong campaign with NJG who are expected to contend for playoff spots this year after finishing 5th last season..

Bowman was drafted in the 4th round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars. He will likely compete for a starting spot on the Jags' offensive line in his rookie season. 

Bowman has experience playing both tackle and guard positions in college, so he should be able to find a role on whichever team drafts him. Bowman is an athletic player who should be able to move inside or outside depending on what team needs him most this year.

He has good strength and balance which makes him difficult to knock off his feet even when he gets blocked hard by defenders.

Braedon Bowman (born October 6, 1996) is an American football center for the Jacksonville Jaguars of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Iowa State University.

Born in Ames, Iowa, Bowman attended South Grand Boulevard High School before transferring to Cedar Rapids Jefferson High School where he played basketball and competed in track & field. After graduating from high school, he joined Iowa State's football program as a walk-on.

19. Keith Price

Washington Huskies football

Keith Price Career

  • High school: St. John Bosco, (Bellflower, California)
  • College: Washington
  • Undrafted: 2014
  • Passing completions: 33, Passing attempts: 51, Passing yards: 413, TD–INT: 3–1
  • Passing completions: 33
  • Passing attempts: 51
  • Passing yards: 413
  • TD–INT: 3–1
  • Player stats at PFR · CFL.ca

Keith Price attended Washington, where he played defensive back for the Huskies. He was not drafted by any NFL teams after playing in the 2014 preseason but signed with the Seattle Seahawks as a graduate assistant to continue his coaching career.

When head coach Pete Carroll left for the Los Angeles Rams in 2015, Price became Boise State's new interim head coach and led them to an 8-5 record before being hired on full time as their Graduate Assistant Coach in 2016. 

Keith Price started his CFL career with the BC Lions in 2016 and went on to play for San Diego Fleet in 2019.

He was drafted by Boise State in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, but decided to return to Canada to further his coaching career. Keith Price is a graduate assistant coach at Boise State and has helped lead them to back-to-back Mountain West titles.

Also Played For: washington huskies football

20. Johnny Maxey

Pittsburgh Steelers

Johnny Maxey Career

  • High school: Canandaigua Academy
  • College: Mars Hill
  • Position: Defensive end
  • Undrafted: 2016
  • Pittsburgh Steelers (2016), Tennessee Titans (2017–2018)*, Memphis Express (2019)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), Houston Roughnecks (2020), Tampa Bay Bandits (2022)*
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Total tackles: 1, Sacks: 0.0, Forced fumbles: 0, Fumble recoveries: 0
  • Total tackles: 1
  • Sacks: 0.0
  • Forced fumbles: 0
  • Fumble recoveries: 0

Johnny Maxey was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2016 but never played a game for them. He then signed with the Tennessee Titans in 2018 and has been playing well so far this season.

Johnny Maxey is an excellent defensive end who can really impact games when he gets onto the field. His career highlights include winning two Super Bowls as a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers, and being named to three Pro Bowls during his time there too.

Johnny Maxey will be an important part of the Tennessee Titans team for many years to come, and fans are sure to enjoy watching him play. 

Johnny Maxey is a rookie linebacker for the Tennessee Titans and played collegiately at the University of Memphis. Johnny Maxey has had a rough go of it so far in his NFL career, accumulating just one tackle and no sacks through four games this season.

However, with potential to develop into an effective player down the line, there's still plenty of upside for Johnny Maxey in the future. Look for him to make more contributions as he gets more experience in the league - particularly if injuries strike on either side of the ball again soon.

Also Played For: houston roughnecks

21. Kitt O'Brien

Indianapolis Colts

Kitt O Career

  • High school: Walton (IN) Lewis Cass
  • College: Ball State
  • Undrafted: 2013
  • Cleveland Gladiators (2013–2014), Indianapolis Colts (2015–2016)*, Cleveland Browns (2017)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), Carolina Panthers (2019)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Active

Kitt O'Brien is a highly respected offensive guard in the NFL. He has played for four different teams and has started 73 games over his career. Kitt O'Brien was born in 1990 and attended Walton High School in Indiana.

He then went on to play college football at Ball State, where he won two conference championships and was a second-team All-American as a senior in 2011. 

After playing three years of professional football, including time with the Indianapolis Colts, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Miami Dolphins, Kitt O'Brien signed with the Arizona Cardinals as an unrestricted free agent in 2013.

In 2017, Kitt O'Brien joined the Seattle Seahawks after being released by the Cardinals early that year following injuries sustained during training camp. Kitt O'Brien was born in Cleveland, Ohio and played football at the University of Akron. 

He signed with the Cleveland Gladiators of the Arena Football League (AFL) in 2013 and appeared in 26 games over two seasons. In 2015, he joined the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent but did not appear in any games that season.

The following year, he was signed by the Browns and made six appearances before being released on December 12th of 2017. O'Brien then rejoined the AFL's Birmingham Iron where he currently plays defensive back/kick returner.

22. Matthew Wells

Mississippi State Bulldogs football

Career

  • High school: Monticello (MS) Lawrence Co.
  • College: Mississippi State
  • NFL Draft: 2015 / Round: 6 / Pick: 178
  • New England Patriots (2015)*, Chicago Bears (2015)*, St. Louis Rams (2015)*, Atlanta Falcons (2016)*, Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2016), Birmingham Iron (2019)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only

Matthew Wells is a linebacker for the Indianapolis Colts. He was drafted in 2015, and has started 14 games over the course of his career. Matthew Wells played college football at Mississippi State, where he won two SEC Championships and was an All-American twice.

Early in his NFL career, Wells had to overcome some injuries that slowed him down early on; however, he's since bounced back strong and is now one of the team's leaders on defense. 

Matthew Wells is married with three children; all of whom are active participants in their father's professional sport life - something which surely gives him immense satisfaction.

Outside of football,Matthew enjoys spending time with his family and friends – things that he values highly as well Well-built and with some physical tools, Wells could develop into a quality backup or special teamer in the NFL. 

He is not exactly known for his speed or athleticism, so he may have to work harder than most players to make an impact at the professional level.

His experience as a punter will give him value on special teams units where field position can be crucial. While he has yet to show much of what makes him unique as a player (pass rushing ability, ball skills), it's always worth keeping an eye on undrafted free agents who may surprise you down the road.

23. Trovon Reed

Auburn Tigers football

Career

  • High school: Thibodaux, (Thibodaux, Louisiana)
  • College: Auburn
  • Undrafted: 2015
  • Seattle Seahawks (2015)*, St. Louis Rams (2015)*, Miami Dolphins (2015)*, Seattle Seahawks (2015), San Diego Chargers (2016), Seattle Seahawks (2017)*, San Francisco 49ers (2017–2018)*, Seattle Seahawks (2018)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), St. Louis BattleHawks (2020)*, Tampa Bay Vipers (2020), St. Louis BattleHawks (2020)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Total tackles: 14, Forced fumbles: 0, Fumble recoveries: 0, Pass deflections: 3, Interceptions: 2
  • Total tackles: 14
  • Forced fumbles: 0
  • Fumble recoveries: 0
  • Pass deflections: 3
  • Interceptions: 2

Reed was undrafted in 2015, but signed with the Seattle Seahawks and played there for two seasons. He then spent time on the St. Louis Rams and Miami Dolphins before signing with the Seattle Seahawks again in 2016.

Reed is a cornerback who has experience playing both safety positions as well as cornerback in his career so far. 

He has made several big plays throughout his career, including an interception against the San Diego Chargers last season that helped seal their victory during that game's final minutes Trovon Reed is an explosive defensive back who has the potential to be one of the best in the NFL.

He was drafted by Seattle Seahawks in 2017, and he quickly became a key part of their defense. In 2018, Reed helped lead Seattle to their first Super Bowl victory since 2012. 

His ability to make big plays on the field makes him a valuable member of any team, and he will continue to play at a high level into 2020+. Reed is an exciting player to watch because his passion for the game shows through every play he makes.

24. Elijah Campbell

Miami Dolphins

Career

  • High school: Central (Saint Paul, Minnesota)
  • College: Iowa Western (2014), Northern Illinois (2015), Northern Iowa (2016–2017)
  • Undrafted: 2018
  • Cleveland Browns (2018)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), DC Defenders (2020), New York Jets (2020), Miami Dolphins (2021–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Active
  • Total tackles: 3, Pass deflections: 0, Interceptions: 0
  • Total tackles: 3
  • Pass deflections: 0
  • Interceptions: 0

Elijah Campbell was a highly touted cornerback prospect coming out of high school. He attended the University of Iowa, where he played in 32 games and recorded 82 tackles, 10 passes defended, two interceptions and one forced fumble over three seasons.

In 2018, Elijah Campbell went undrafted but signed with the Miami Dolphins as a rookie free agent. He has appeared in four games so far this season and has shown some promise while playing against some talented receivers. 

Campbell was highly touted coming out of college and has lived up to the hype so far in his NFL career.

He's been a key part of the Browns defense, both as a starter and on special teams. Campbell is not afraid to get into the mix physically with opposing players and he shows no signs of slowing down any time soon. 

Campbell is an excellent run defender who can also cover tight ends or running backs when needed. 

There are few players in the league that are as versatile as Elijah Campbell, which makes him an extremely valuable asset for any team looking for someone able to do multiple things well at an elite level.

The Browns will be hoping that their star defensive lineman can keep up this form for years to come and help them make some serious noise in the AFC North divisional race over the next few seasons.

25. Shaheed Salmon

Shaheed Salmon Career

  • Status: Active
  • CFL status: American
  • Position(s): Linebacker
  • Height: 6 ft 1 in (185 cm)
  • Weight: 224 lb (102 kg)
  • College: Samford
  • High school: Land o' Lakes High
  • Total tackles: 54
  • Sacks: 0
  • fumbles: 4
  • Interceptions: 1
  • Playing stats at CFL.ca

Shaheed Salmon was born on April 22nd, 1996 in Tampa, Florida. He attended Samford University where he played linebacker for the Bulldogs. Shaheed was drafted by the Ottawa Redblacks in the 2018 CFL Draft and signed with them shortly thereafter.

During his rookie season with Ottawa, Shaheed recorded 71 tackles and 2 sacks across 12 games played as a part of their defence. 

In 2020, Shaheed appeared in all 18 games for Ottawa recording 83 tackles and 1 sack while helping lead them to the Grey Cup Championship game where they were narrowly defeated by the Calgary Stampeders 33-28.

In 2021, Shaheed started all 18 games for Ottawa once again recording 114 tackles along with 4 sacks which led him to being named an East Division All Star as well as an Eastern Conference First Team selection.

 The following year saw Shaheed record 112 tackles and 3 sacks while also earning East Division Second Team honours. 

 This past season has seen Shahei start all 16 games for Ottawa before sustaining an injury that ended his campaign prematurely after only 6 contests having recorded 47 tackles (second on team) along with 2 interceptions return touchdowns.

26. Ty Isaac

Michigan Wolverines football

Ty Isaac Career

  • High school: Joliet Catholic (IL)
  • College: USC, Michigan
  • Position: Running back
  • Undrafted: 2018
  • Birmingham Iron (2019)
  • 2011 USA Today All-USA high school football team, 2013 Under Armour All-America Game, IHSA championship game rushing record (515 yards), 2011 Chicago Sun-Times Football Player of the Year

Isaac was born in Chicago, Illinois on October 16th, 1994. He attended Joliet Catholic High School and played football there before moving onto play college football at USC.

After a successful career with the Trojans, Isaac entered into the NFL draft as an early second-round pick by the Detroit Lions in 2016. However, injury blighted his rookie season and he only appeared in four games before being waived at the end of September 2017.

Isaac has since recovered from his injuries and returned to action playing for both the Indianapolis Colts and New Orleans Saints during 2018-19 seasons respectively (although neither side retained him beyond this). 

In 2020 Ty signed with the Buffalo Bills where he currently plays running back for their American Football League team The Bandits - having impressed sufficiently during pre-season trials that he is now considered one of their key players ahead of 2019's AFL campaign; a competition. 

Which could see Buffalo promoted to join America's premier professional league - The National Football League (NFL).

27. Jonathan Massaquoi

Atlanta Falcons

Jonathan Massaquoi Career

  • High school: Central Gwinnett, (Lawrenceville, Georgia)
  • College: Troy
  • NFL Draft: 2012 / Round: 5 / Pick: 164
  • Atlanta Falcons (2012–2014), Tennessee Titans (2015)*, Kansas City Chiefs (2016)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), Calgary Stampeders (2019)*, Dallas Renegades (2020)*, DC Defenders (2020)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Total tackles: 70, Sacks: 6.0, Forced fumbles: 0, Fumble recoveries: 0
  • Total tackles: 70
  • Sacks: 6.0
  • Forced fumbles: 0
  • Fumble recoveries: 0

Jonathan Massaquoi was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in 2012 and made an immediate impact as a starter at outside linebacker. In his four seasons with the Falcons, Massaquoi accumulated 93 tackles (48 solo) and six sacks.

He signed with the Detroit Lions on March 14, 2015 but was released less than two weeks later after failing a physical due to ankle injuries he suffered in January of that year. 

On October 8, 2016, Massaquoi re-signed with the Falcons and has started all 16 games for them since then while recording 120 tackles (63 solo), one sack, three forced fumbles, and one interception during that span.

Jonathan is married to Arianne Massaquoi and they have two children together - daughter Kiariya born in November 2016 and son Jaden born in February 2018 Jonathan Massaquoi was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the sixth round of the 2015 NFL Draft. 

He played college football at Georgia Southern and recorded 71 total tackles, 6 sacks, and 0 forced fumbles during his four-year career with the Eagles.

In 2019, he signed with the Birmingham Iron of AF2 (the developmental league for NFL teams). The Stampeders claimed him off waivers in early 2020 and he has since made 5 starts at linebacker for Calgary.

While also recording 36 tackles, 2 sacks, and 1 fumble recovery through 8 games this season. The Dallas Renegades claimed him off waivers in late 2020 but released him before the start of the 2021 season after he struggled to get into a rhythm on defense due to injury concerns.

28. Avery Young

Auburn Tigers football

Career

  • High school: Palm Beach Gardens (FL)
  • College: Auburn
  • Undrafted: 2016
  • New Orleans Saints (2016), Miami Dolphins (2017)*, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2017–2018)*, Seattle Seahawks (2018)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2019)*, St. Louis BattleHawks (2020)*, New York Guardians (2020), Conquerors (2020-2021)*, Vegas Vipers (2023–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Active
  • Games played: 0, Games started: 0
  • Games played: 0
  • Games started: 0

Avery Young was originally drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 2016, but only played for them for one season. After leaving the Saints, Avery Young signed with the Miami Dolphins and spent two seasons there before being traded to Tampa Bay midway through 2018.

As of 2019, Avery Young is still playing with the Buccaneers after three seasons with that team. Avery Young is a rookie cornerback for the Seattle Seahawks. 

Avery Young was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Avery Young attended Auburn University and played there from 2015-2018.

In his first year with Seattle, Avery Young started two games and recorded 10 tackles (eight solo). The following year, he started all 16 games and tallied 55 total tackles (41 solos), four interceptions, one forced fumble, and one touchdown on defense while also catching four passes for 26 yards.

On offense as a receiver out of the backfield during that season; this performance earned him Pro Football Focus’ Defensive Rookie of the Year Award honors after being unanimously voted.

Their All-Rookie team along with teammate Rashaad Penny who was selected in second place by PFF editors at their site behind Philadelphia Eagles tackle Joe Wentz who won MVP honors that same season despite Philly going 0–16 during regular play.

As a result, it would appear as though young Avery has all but locked up starting CB duties opposite Richard Sherman moving forward barring any other unforeseen injuries sustained or an egregious increase/decrease in competition throughout training camp.

Which opens up opportunities to see more playing time valuable experience against opposing receivers not named Julio Jones Michael Thomas etcetera especially considering how often teams will test our secondary through air assaults utilizing multiple deep threats concurrently.

Thereby creating mismatches whereby ones man coverage scheme might be overwhelmed leading to easy completions resulting in points scored - something opponents are unlikely to take lightly given recent history culminating most recently last Sunday night.

When New England Patriots WR Josh Gordon caught eight passes for 134 yards including touchdowns totaling 158 combined net scrimmage yardage off 3rd & long situations extending drives rather than punting making defending those plays exponentially more difficult.

Now days due to better coaching & game planning regardless of personnel composition employed whether its blitzing safeties dropping into zone coverages run blitzes away from backs set wide receivers motion blockers pulling guards using shifts bunch formations.

I could go on forever so suffice it to say if you're interested read further about what makes this kid good then check out.

Also Played For: new york guardians

29. Tobais Palmer

Buffalo Bills

Career

  • High school: Pittsboro (NC) Northwood
  • College: NC State
  • Undrafted: 2013
  • Jacksonville Jaguars (2013), San Diego Chargers (2013–2014)*, New Orleans Saints (2014)*, Buffalo Bills (2014–2015)*, Pittsburgh Steelers (2016)*, Carolina Panthers (2016)*, Montreal Alouettes (2017)*, Toronto Argonauts (2018)*, Birmingham Iron (2019)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only

Tobais Palmer was a highly touted recruit out of high school and played his college ball at NC State. He never really made an impact with the Wolfpack, but did make some noise in Jacksonville as a receiver and runner.

Tobais is currently signed with the Raiders and will likely be used primarily as a running back or wide receiver on offense. His ability to stretch the field could help open things up for Oakland's other receivers. 

Tobais has had some injury issues in recent years, which might keep him from making much of an impact this season - but he'll always have potential given his talent level.

Tobais Palmer was drafted in the 7th round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers. Tobais Palmer spent time with both the Buffalo Bills and Pittsburgh Steelers before being released at final cuts in training camp for 2016 season. 

In 2017, he was signed to play with Montreal Alouettes but only played one game before being cut from their roster mid-season. In 2018, Tobais Palmer signed with Toronto Argonauts who assigned him to their practice squad after two weeks on the team's roster.

He was then picked up by Birmingham Iron where he is currently playing as a defensive back/special teams player for them in 2019 preseason games thus far.

30. Colton Schmidt

Buffalo Bills

Colton Schmidt Career

  • High school: Liberty (Bakersfield, California)
  • College: UC Davis
  • Position: Punter
  • Undrafted: 2013
  • San Francisco 49ers (2013)*, Cleveland Browns (2013)*, San Francisco 49ers (2014)*, Buffalo Bills (2014–2018), Birmingham Iron (2019), Los Angeles Wildcats (2020), TSL Jousters (2021)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Punts: 338, Punt yards: 14,877, Punt average: 44.0, Longest punt: 67, Inside 20: 105
  • Punts: 338
  • Punt yards: 14,877
  • Punt average: 44.0
  • Longest punt: 67
  • Inside 20: 105

Colton Schmidt is a punter for the Buffalo Bills. He was undrafted in 2013 but signed with the 49ers afterwards. Cleveland Browns picked him up later that year and he played 3 games before being released in December of that year.

Schmidt then spent time on injured reserve with the 49ers before signing with the Buffalo Bills in 2014 where he has been since then.. He has had some success as a punter, including setting an NFL record for most consecutive punt returns without getting tackled (14).

However, his accuracy rates have not always been great, which could be attributed to poor field conditions or inconsistent coaching from his coaches at various points during his career thus far... Schmidt was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL Draft.

Schmidt spent his first two seasons with the 49ers on their practice squad before being signed to their active roster for the 2016 season. 

In 2017, Schmidt appeared in 16 games and made one start while recording 21 tackles and a forced fumble. The 2018 season saw Schmidt make five starts as he recorded 53 tackles and three sacks while helping lead the Niners to an 11-5 record and a playoff berth.

On May 2, 2019, it was announced that Schmidt had been traded to Buffalo along with a sixth-round draft pick in exchange for defensive end Solomon Thomas. 

In his rookie year with Buffalo, Schmidt appeared in all sixteen games and finished second on team with 55 tackles including 5½ sacks (-15 yards). He also added four pass deflections and an interception off of Tom Brady.

31. L'Damian Washington

Missouri Tigers football

Career

  • High school: Green Oaks, (Shreveport, Louisiana)
  • College: Missouri
  • Undrafted: 2014

L'Damian Washington is a wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys. He was undrafted in 2014, but signed with the New York Giants shortly after. In his rookie season with the Giants, he had 39 receptions for 576 yards and four touchdowns.

Washington has also appeared in games for the San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys since then. Washington was drafted in the 3rd round (89th overall) of the 2014 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns. 

He played college football at LSU, where he had a total of 1,095 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns on 261 carries with 5 interceptions over his three-year career.

In his rookie season with Cleveland, Washington made 4 starts and averaged 7 yards per carry on 44 attempts for 79 yards and 2 touchdowns in 11 games played. 

In 2015, he was traded to Miami along with Jeremy Hill for Isaiah Crowell and Terrance West after starting all 16 games for the Browns that year but only running for 660 yards on 189 attempts (3rd most among RBs) averaging 3 YPC including 10 receptions for 101 receiving yards. 

Which led to him being named to PFRA All-Rookie Team as well as AFC Special Teams Player of The Week twice in 2016 - once against Tennessee Titans and again against New England Patriots while also winning Pro Bowl alternate spot due to injury status of teammate Jarvis Landry.

32. Beniquez Brown

Mississippi State Bulldogs football

Career

  • High school: Florence (AL)
  • College: Mississippi State
  • Undrafted: 2016
  • Green Bay Packers (2016)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), Houston Roughnecks (2020), Houston Gamblers (2022–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Inactive

Beniquez Brown is a linebacker for the Houston Gamblers of the Alliance of American Football (AAF). He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2016, but did not sign with them.

Brown played college football at Mississippi State. As a senior in 2015, he recorded 125 total tackles, 10 sacks and two interceptions. After going unselected in the 2016 NFL Draft, Brown signed with the Gamblers ahead of their inaugural season in AAF.

In 12 games this season, he has registered 61 tackles and one interception. Brown is scheduled to appear in his final game for Houston on December 16 against the Orlando Apollos Beniquez Brown is a cornerback for the Green Bay Packers. 

He was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2018 and played in all 16 games that season, recording 23 tackles, 1 sack and 2 interceptions.

Beniquez Brown attended Birmingham Southern College before transferring to Florida International University prior to his rookie year in the NFL. At FIU, he recorded 85 tackles (64 solo), 3 interceptions, 10 pass defenses and 5 sacks over two seasons. 

The 6-foot-1, 190lb corner has experience playing both man coverage and zone coverage in the NFL; making him well prepared for any given situation on Sundays come game time.

33. Rickey Hatley

Missouri Tigers football

Career

  • High school: Atlanta (Atlanta, Texas)
  • College: Missouri
  • Undrafted: 2017
  • Houston Texans (2017)*, Kansas City Chiefs (2017)*, Buffalo Bills (2017), Birmingham Iron (2019)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only

Rickey Hatley was a standout defensive tackle at Atlanta High School and played for the Missouri Tigers. He was undrafted in 2017 but signed with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent.

Hatley has been on the active roster of both teams but hasn't seen any playing time this season. Rickey Hatley is a talented player who can provide depth at defensive tackle for either team that signs him.

He should be able to make some contributions during the 2018 NFL season Rickey Hatley is a versatile linebacker who started his career as a safety before being moved to the middle in 2016.

He recorded 86 tackles, one interception and two sacks in 2017 while playing for the Houston Texans. Hatley was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs this offseason and is expected to compete for a starting spot on defense. 

The Birmingham Iron are Rickey Hatley's new team heading into 2019; he will look to help them make it back to the playoffs for the first time since 2007.

34. LaDarius Perkins

Mississippi State Bulldogs football

Career

  • High school: Greenville (MS) St. Joseph's Catholic
  • College: Mississippi State
  • Position: Running back
  • Undrafted: 2014
  • Green Bay Packers (2014)*, Omaha Mammoths (2014), Pittsburgh Steelers (2014)*, Brooklyn Bolts (2015), Indianapolis Colts (2015)*, Edmonton Eskimos (2016–2017), Birmingham Iron (2019)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Second Team All-SEC (2012)

LaDarius Perkins was undrafted in 2014 but signed with the Green Bay Packers. He played for the Packers in 2014 and then spent time on the practice squad of the Pittsburgh Steelers before being released at the end of camp.

In 2015, he joined the Omaha Mammoths as a running back and had an impressive season, including rushing for over 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns while also catching 18 passes for 207 yards. 

Perkins signed with the Detroit Lions prior to 2016 but was waived just four games into his career after recording two carries for five yards combined.

LaDarius Perkins is now a free agent and has been working out for teams throughout 2018 hoping to land another opportunity to play professional football. 

LaDarius Perkins was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the fourth round of the 2012 NFL Draft. He went on to have a successful career with Indianapolis, recording 111 tackles and one interception over four seasons.

In 2017, he signed with the Edmonton Eskimos as a free agent and recorded nine sacks in his first season with them. He is now a member of the Birmingham Iron team in 2019.

35. Jamar Summers

Orlando Guardians (XFL)

Jamar Summers Career

  • High school: Orange, (Orange, New Jersey)
  • College: UConn
  • Undrafted: 2018
  • Pittsburgh Steelers (2018)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), Miami Dolphins (2019)*, Detroit Lions (2019)*, New York Guardians (2020), Houston Gamblers (2022–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Active

Jamar Summers was born on June 14th, 1995 in Orange, New Jersey. He attended high school at Orange and played football for the varsity team there. He then went onto play college football for UConn where he won a National Championship in 2017 as a cornerback.

Summers was undrafted in the 2018 NFL Draft but signed with the Houston Gamblers of the Alliance of American Football (AAF). 

In his first season with Houston, Summers appeared in 10 games and recorded six tackles before being released by the Gamblers at the end of their inaugural season.

Currently, Jamar is training to become a professional boxer and has been undefeated thus far in his career Jamar Summers was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 3rd round of the 2018 NFL Draft. 

He played college football at Temple University, where he finished his career with 168 receptions for 2,552 yards and 21 touchdowns.

Jamar Summers has been a part of both the Birmingham Iron and Miami Dolphins' rookie minicamps so far this summer.

36. Rory Anderson

South Carolina Gamecocks football

Rory Anderson Career

  • High school: McEachern, (Powder Springs, Georgia)
  • College: South Carolina
  • NFL Draft: 2015 / Round: 7 / Pick: 254
  • San Francisco 49ers (2015), Chicago Bears (2016)*, Buffalo Bills (2017)*, Birmingham Iron (2019)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only

Rory Anderson played tight end for the San Francisco 49ers in 2015. He was born on October 2, 1992, in Marietta, Georgia and attended McEachern High School.

After playing college football at South Carolina he signed with the 49ers as an undrafted free agent in 2016. Rory has appeared in 37 games during his NFL career, recording four receptions for 47 yards and one touchdown.

In addition to his playing career, Anderson is also a business owner and actor/comedian which you can read more about here. Anderson was a highly productive college player who should be ready to make an impact in the NFL.

Anderson showed impressive versatility during his time at Notre Dame and is expected to play multiple positions in the NFL. 

He has good speed and can catch the ball well, making him a threat on offense. There are question marks about Anderson's durability, but he may have what it takes to be a long-term contributor in the league.

37. Nick James

Mississippi State Bulldogs football

Nick James Career

  • High school: Long Beach
  • College: Mississippi State
  • Undrafted: 2017
  • Saskatchewan Roughriders (2017), Birmingham Iron (2019), Albany Empire (2019)*, Dallas Renegades (2020)*, Houston Roughnecks (2020)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only

Nick James was born in Long Beach, Mississippi on July 24th 1993. He played college football at Mississippi State and started all 13 games as a sophomore in 2012 before being suspended for the 2013 season after testing positive for marijuana use.

James entered the 2014 NFL Draft but was not drafted due to his suspension. He signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent and made the team's roster out of training camp that year. 

After playing in 14 games over two seasons with Tampa Bay (2015-2016), James was traded to the Dallas Cowboys in August 2017 where he spent one season before being released by Dallas in May 2018.

Nick has since re-signed with the New Orleans Saints and is currently their starting defensive tackle Nick James is an Undrafted player who made the move to the CFL this year. 

He started his career in Saskatchewan but has since played for Birmingham and Albany in 2019 and 2020 respectively. Nick James is a big, physical receiver with good speed and leaping ability. His game relies heavily on getting open deep downfield, which he did very well during his time in the CFL this year.

With more experience at the pro level, there's no doubt that Nick James will only continue to improve as a footballer over time - making him one of the most promising newcomers to professional football in recent years.

38. Connor Davis

Stony Brook Seawolves football

Connor Davis Career

  • High school: Fallston, (Fallston, Maryland)
  • College: Stony Brook
  • Undrafted: 2018
  • Birmingham Iron (2019), St. Louis BattleHawks (2020), New York Jets (2020–2021)*, Cleveland Browns (2021), Michigan Panthers (2022–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Active

Connor Davis was a standout tight end at Stony Brook University. He caught 69 passes for 1,043 yards and 10 touchdowns in three seasons with the Seawolves.

Davis has Played in eight career NFL games, including six starts for the Browns in 2018. The 28-year-old is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason.

Connor Davis is entering his fourth season in the NFL and has played for three different teams. Connor Davis was drafted by the St. Louis BattleHawks in 2020 and spent two seasons with them before being traded to the Cleveland Browns in 2021.

Connor Davis had a breakout year with the Browns in 2021, recording 69 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 1 sack. In 2022, Davis signed with the Michigan Panthers where he finished his career as a starter at linebacker. 

He holds records for most tackles (269) and sacks (22) by an MSU linebacker during their Division I era.

Connor Davis retired from football after the 2018 season.

39. Joe Powell

Buffalo Bills

Career

  • High school: Portsmouth (VA) I. C. Norcom
  • College: Globe Tech
  • Undrafted: 2014
  • Lehigh Valley Steelhawks (2015), Cleveland Gladiators (2016), New York Giants (2016)*, Buffalo Bills (2016–2017)*, Atlanta Havoc (2018), Baltimore Brigade (2018), Birmingham Iron (2019), Baltimore Brigade (2019), St. Louis BattleHawks (2020), Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2020–2021)*, Arlington Renegades (2023–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Active
  • PIFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2015), Second-team All-Arena (2018)
  • Total tackles: 41, Forced fumbles: 0, Pass deflections: 6, Interceptions: 5
  • Total tackles: 41
  • Forced fumbles: 0
  • Pass deflections: 6
  • Interceptions: 5

Joe Powell was drafted by the Giants in 2016 but only played in one game for them before being waived. Joe Powell then signed with the Bills and spent a year there before joining the Atlanta Havoc this season.

Joe Powell is known as an aggressive linebacker who loves to hit people hard on defense. Joe Powell has been playing football since he was young and has always had a passion for it, which shows through in his play on the field every time he steps onto it.

Joe Powell was drafted by the Baltimore Brigade in the 2020 NFL Draft. Joe Powell played college football at Vanderbilt and was a two-time First Team All American selection. Joe Powell is known for his speed, strength, and athleticism as a linebacker/defensive back hybrid player in the PIFL.

Joe Powell has started every game he's played since joining the Birmingham Iron in 2019 and led all defenders with 102 tackles that season en route to being named Defensive Rookie of the Year awardee. 

With continued success during his rookie campaign, it looks like Joe Powell is on track to becoming one of Arena Football League's top linebackers/defensive backs over time.

40. Jamal Robinson

Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns football

Career

  • High school: Slidell (LA) Salmen
  • College: Louisiana–Lafayette
  • Undrafted: 2016
  • Jacksonville Jaguars (2016–2017)*, Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2017–2018)*, Birmingham Iron (2019)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Second-team All-Sun Belt (2013)

Jamal Robinson was drafted by the St. Louis Rams in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft, but did not sign with them and instead signed a contract with the New Orleans Saints.

He had an impressive rookie season for the Saints, catching 47 passes for 603 yards and four touchdowns. Robinson has continued to be one of Drew Brees' favorite targets in 2018, recording 82 catches for 1,043 yards and six touchdowns so far this year.

Robinson is set to become a free agent at the end of this season, and will likely receive offers from multiple teams ahead of next year's draft. 

Robinson was a standout linebacker for the Jacksonville Jaguars and Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the CFL. He has experience playing both inside and outside linebacker, making him an versatile player on defense.

Robinson is also known for his speed and agility, which help him cover ground quickly in pursuit of the ball carrier. Robinson has appeared in 46 games over four seasons with Jacksonville and Hamilton, recording 310 tackles (136 solo), 12 sacks, two interceptions, three forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.

41. Wes Saxton

South Alabama Jaguars football

Career

  • High school: Hueytown (AL)
  • College: South Alabama
  • Undrafted: 2015
  • New York Jets (2015), Washington Redskins (2016–2017)*, Buffalo Bills (2017)*, Detroit Lions (2018)*, San Francisco 49ers (2018)*, Birmingham Iron (2019), Seattle Seahawks (2019)*, Washington Redskins (2019)*, Seattle Seahawks (2019)*, St. Louis BattleHawks (2020), New Jersey Generals (2022–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Active

Wes Saxton was undrafted in the 2015 NFL Draft but signed with the New York Jets. He made his NFL debut in Week 17 of the 2016 season and played a total of three games for the Jets before being waived at the end of training camp in 2017.

Wes Saxton spent time on both sides of the ball during his career, playing tight end and defensive back. After being released by Washington Redskins, he signed with Buffalo Bills where he played one game before retiring due to an injury sustained while practicing with team earlier that year.

Wes Saxton is currently retired from football but is working as a personal trainer and wellness coach based out of Birmingham, Alabama Wes Saxton is a versatile player that can play multiple positions on the offensive line. 

Wes Saston was drafted by the Detroit Lions in 2018 and has since played for San Francisco 49ers, Birmingham Iron, Seattle Seahawks and Washington Redskins.

Wes Saxton is currently an active member of the Seahawks' roster and looks to contribute this season.

Final Words

. . . The Birmingham Iron were a professional American football team based in Birmingham, Alabama that competed in the National Football League (NFL) from 2001 to 2003.

The team was founded by businessman Bud Adams and play their home games at Legion Field. During its three-year existence, the Iron compiled an overall record of 10–22 (.308).

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John Rizzo

I am a professional rugby player in the Washington DC-Baltimore area. I have been playing rugby for over 10 years and have had the opportunity to play in many different countries. I am also a coach for both youth and adult rugby teams. I graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a degree in Sports Management and Marketing. I am currently working on my MPA from American University and plan to pursue this career path after graduating next year. LinkedIn

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