Ryan Jones, John DeFilippo, and the New Orleans Breakers organization have made waves in USFL free agency, signing some bigger names off the board. Now, former Showboats wideout Vinny Papale has joined the organization for 2024.
BREAKING: The New Orleans Breakers have signed WR Vinny Papale, per the team.
Papale has spent the last two years in Tampa Bay/Memphis, and was one of the top receivers for the Showboats this past season.
Another huge pickup for the @USFLBreakers in #USFL free agency. pic.twitter.com/vDrCX0aSHO
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) October 26, 2023
Vinny Papale began his USFL career with the Tampa Bay Bandits in 2022. He was a solid target for QB Jordan Ta’amu, catching 19 passes for 244 total yards.
🎯 @JTaamu10 with the DART to Vinny Papale for the big gain
📺: @FOXSports pic.twitter.com/c2R51kWoIH
— Tampa Bay Bandits (@USFLBandits) June 12, 2022
However, Papale took a big step forward in 2023. With the Memphis Showboats dealing with offensive injuries – and instability at the QB position – Vinny settled into his role seamlessly. He started in four out of ten games played, and finished the year with 345 yards on 33 receptions.
TOUCHDOWN! Vinny Papale with the 37-yard TD! 😤
🎥: @USANetwork pic.twitter.com/npefTDIT8V
— Memphis Showboats (@USFLShowboats) May 20, 2023
Papale scored three touchdowns on the year, proving to be a red zone threat, something the Showboats needed. Additionally, he was excellent on special teams, leading the USFL in tackles in that category.
4th down conversions 🤝 @ColeKelley10 to Vinny Papale 💯 pic.twitter.com/dmnsahZbl7
— Memphis Showboats (@USFLShowboats) June 4, 2023
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With each and every year, Vinny continues to improve in the spring football scene. From 2020-2021, he played with the TSL’s Conquerors, posting 102 receiving yards and two scores in their second season.
Now, Vinny Papale will be joining the New Orleans Breakers – a team that…