The New Jersey Generals were one of the eight casualties we saw across the spring football landscape this winter, following the merger between the XFL and USFL. This resulted in their roster being spread across the surviving UFL teams, through the dispersal draft and free agency. Following a USFL North Division title in 2022, New Jersey had a down year in 2023 finishing with a 3-7 record – missing the playoffs entirely.
Most of their problems were due to an inept passing game with no consistency at quarterback. Despite this, their roster was still very strong, and it makes sense why the Roughnecks ended up with seven former Generals who played significant snaps for New Jersey. After covering the Generals in 2023, it seemed best to dive deeper into some familiar faces in Houston for the upcoming season with the Roughnecks.
Toby Johnson – DT
Johnson was New Jersey’s most consistent and dominant player throughout their 21 games in the USFL. Toby recorded 76 tackles and five and a half sacks, as well as a phenomenal diving interception against the Michigan Panthers in 2022. He was a two-time All-USFL selection at nose tackle and helped his squad have one of the best run defenses in the league. Despite being 32, Johnson is still one of the best interior defensive linemen in the UFL and will consistently help Houston’s run defense, as well as their pass rush from the inside.
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— New Jersey Generals (@USFLGenerals) June 11, 2022
Bryson Young – OLB
Young was another two-year starter for the Generals defense who is consistent in the run game and has pass rush upside. He finished his stint with New Jersey totaling three sacks and 47 tackles. Bryson will be 26 when week one kicks off and should be able to help as a strong rotational piece at pass rusher with players like Ronheen Bingham, Isaiah Chambers, Chris Odom and Adam Rodriguez also in the mix.
Free…