Around the NFL, there are only 2,208 roster and practice squad spots for players to make a name for themselves. So, if a player can’t find a place to play with one of the 32 teams, they have the option to go to another league.
That’s exactly what two former Miami Dolphins did on Thursday, as offensive lineman Larnel Coleman and defensive back Keidron Smith have signed with the Houston Roughnecks and Orlando Guardians, respectively, of the XFL.
Coleman, 25, was a seventh-round pick of the Dolphins in 2021 after a collegiate career at UMass. He spent his rookie season on injured reserve and was on Miami’s practice squad in 2022 when he was signed by the Carolina Panthers. He’s only played in one NFL game.
Smith, 24, was an undrafted free agent signed by the Dolphins after this year’s draft following his time with Kentucky. However, he was waived during roster cuts. He spent some time with the Washington Commanders practice squad.
The XFL season is planned to begin in late March 2024.