The second edition of the XFL has given an opportunity for several former Bills to continue their professional football journey. A few of the players who frequented Buffalo’s roster in the past made some history in the XFL this weekend.
Here’s how several former Bills players fared in the opening week of XFL action:
DC Defenders
The Defenders had several familiar faces to those who have suited up with the Bills over the past number of years. Quarterback Cardale Jones made the most of his time on the field, going 16-of-26 passing for 235 yards and a passer rating of 116.7. He also rushed the ball nine times for 28 yards.
Former practice squad candidate Tyree Jackson played sparingly, rushing the ball once for five yards and not throwing a pass during the game. His brief time on the field was mostly a change-of-space for the Defenders offense.
Tight end Khari Lee and wide receiver Malachi Dupree were involved in the aerial attack. Dupre caught two passes for 14 receiving yards. Lee, who played primarily as a blocking tight end for the Bills, was on the receiving end of a 39-yard touchdown reception which was a trick play also involving Jones:
TRICK PLAY ALERT @xfl2020 🚨
Cardale Jones ➡️ Donnel Pumphrey ➡️ Eli Rogers ➡️ Cardale Jones ➡️ Khari Lee pic.twitter.com/FtV2egjmin
— ESPN (@espn) February 8, 2020
Former Buffalo prospects were also on display on the defensive side of the ball. Linebacker A.J. Tarpley, who retired from the NFL in 2015 due to concerns about concussions, returned to the field in the AAF and continues his comeback in the XFL. He registered five total tackles on the day. Cornerback Bradley Sylve returned an interception for a touchdown as well:
THE PICK! THE SIX! Bradley Sylve takes it to the house and the Defenders are starting to run away with it! pic.twitter.com/M3QbZnw0l5
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) February 8, 2020
