Both phases of the UFL dispersal draft are now complete, meaning it is a great time to update my power rankings for the 2024 season. With the wild west that is free agency set to open today, there are bound to be many unforeseen shifts between now and kickoff on March 30th. But for now, let’s see if we can figure out some sort of rankings between these teams.
Previous Rankings (January 1)
1. Birmingham Stallions
2. Arlington Renegades
3. DC Defenders
4. Michigan Panthers
5. Houston Roughnecks
6. St. Louis Battlehawks
7. Memphis Showboats
8. San Antonio Brahmas
Current Rankings
1. Birmingham Stallions
Birmingham is one of just two teams to hold the same position in this week’s rankings. The Stallions had a quiet draft, mostly opting to select former players and fix minor depth issues on their roster. That said, this team still looks very poised to take on the UFL’s best in 2024. Linebacker Chris Orr, kicker Chris Blewitt, and others are set to join a returning cast of familiar faces headlined by quarterback J’Mar Smith, and new addition Adrian Martinez. Furthermore, with Coach Skip Holtz back in the saddle, there’s no reason to doubt the two-time champs just yet.
2. DC Defenders (+1)
The Defenders, like the Stallions, return multiple key pieces from their runner-up performance last season. HC Reggie Barlow returns alongside star running back Abram Smith. They will be joined by a stacked defense, and bolstered by a long list of solid draft picks. Defensive lineman Boogie Roberts, safety Deontay Anderson, EDGE Trent Harris, and QB Jalan McClendon each add depth and firepower to an already dangerous team. Look out for DC this year.
3. Memphis Showboats (+4)
Memphis was by far the biggest riser in this power ranking, a testament to just how good their draft was this season. New head coach John Defilippo (former HC of the New Orleans Breakers) completely overhauled a roster that was severely lacking. Quarterback Case Cookus,…