XFL sees early success as a transitional league
Before it ceased play in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the revitalized XFL had success as a transitional league, helping put players such as quarterback P.J. Walker and tight end Donald Parham Jr. on NFL rosters.
Brought back for a full season in 2023, the XFL is seeing more players receive opportunities in the NFL.
The XFL season does not end until after the championship game on May 13, but more than 20 invitations have already been extended to players for NFL tryouts at minicamps. This figure also does not include any of the players on the two championship teams whose seasons have not yet concluded. For now, XFL players are only allowed to work out with NFL teams. Once the season officially concludes on May 15, players may sign contracts with NFL teams.
Among the players invited to participate in NFL minicamps is Ben DiNucci, the league's passing leader with 2,671 yards and 20 touchdowns in 10 games. DiNucci played with the Cowboys for one season after being drafted in the seventh round out of James Madison. He started one NFL game in 2020.
According to Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team, DiNucci received an invitation from the Denver Broncos, a team that dealt with injuries (and poor play) at quarterback in 2022. Last season's Denver backup, Brett Rypien, is now with the Los Angeles Rams, so the Broncos signed Jarrett Stidham to back up Russell Wilson, who is currently 34. DiNucci has a chance to compete for a roster spot or potentially get back on a team's practice squad for the first time since 2021.
Another XFL star to receive an invitation is the league's 2022 Defensive Player of the Year, edge-rusher Pita Taumoepenu. According to Brad Stainbrook of The Orange and Brown Report, Taumoepenu received an invite from the Cleveland Browns, a team that is looking for help in its front seven.
Taumoepenu, who led the XFL in pressures in 2023 with 38, had 7.5 sacks, eight tackles for loss and a league-high four forced fumbles. He registered an elite pass-rushing grade of 89.9, according to Pro Football Focus, proving his value.
More players probably will receive invites from NFL teams, including the D.C. Defenders' offensive duo of the 2023 Offensive Player of the Year quarterback Jordan Ta'amu and league-leading rusher Abram Smith.
Before the season, XFL co-owner Gerry Cardinale said that the XFL would provide players "new opportunities for turning pro." In its first full season, they're finding success in that mission.
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