The Arlington Renegades roster for the 2025 United Football League (UFL) season is a hot topic among fans, as this team aims to rebound from a disappointing 2024 campaign and reclaim their 2023 XFL Championship glory. Under the leadership of head coach Bob Stoops, the Renegades have carefully crafted a roster blending seasoned veterans and promising newcomers to compete in the highly competitive UFL. With key players like quarterback Luis Perez and running back De’Veon Smith returning, alongside new additions to bolster the defense, the Arlington Renegades roster is poised to make waves in the spring football landscape. This article dives deep into the team’s 2025 roster, exploring standout players, strategic changes, and what fans can expect when the season kicks off on March 28, 2025, at Choctaw Stadium.
Overview of the Arlington Renegades Roster
The Arlington Renegades roster for 2025 reflects a strategic overhaul following a 3-7 record in 2024, a stark contrast to their 2023 XFL Championship win. The team, part of the UFL’s XFL Conference, plays its home games at Choctaw Stadium in Arlington, Texas. General Manager Rick Mueller and Coach Stoops have focused on retaining core talent while addressing defensive weaknesses that plagued last season. The Arlington Renegades roster now includes 50 players, with notable additions and cuts made during training camp to create a balanced squad. Key returnees like quarterback Luis Perez, who led the UFL in passing yards in 2024, anchor the offense, while new defensive signings aim to improve a unit that ranked second-to-last in the league. The roster’s mix of experience and youth sets the stage for a competitive season.
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Key Players Returning to the Arlington Renegades Roster
The Arlington Renegades roster boasts several returning stars who provide stability and leadership. Quarterback Luis Perez, a spring football veteran, is the centerpiece. In 2024, he threw for 2,307 yards and 18 touchdowns, earning praise for carrying the team despite its struggles. Running back De’Veon Smith, who rejoined after training camp, brings physicality with 816 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns over two seasons. Wide receivers Tyler Vaughns and JaVonta Payton also return, with Vaughns recording 45 receptions for 502 yards and Payton adding 379 yards and five touchdowns. Tight end Sal Cannella, an All-USFL honoree in 2022, remains a reliable target. These players form the offensive core, ensuring the Arlington Renegades roster maintains its high-powered attack, which earned a 72.6 PFF offensive rating in 2024.
New Additions to the Arlington Renegades Roster
To address last season’s defensive shortcomings, the Arlington Renegades roster welcomed impactful newcomers. Defensive linemen Amani Bledsoe and Chris Odom were signed to fill the void left by Jalen Redmond, who moved to the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings. Bledsoe, a former Oklahoma standout, and Odom bring professional experience to strengthen the pass rush. Cornerback Chris Claybrooks, a 2020 NFL Draft pick with 81 career tackles, adds versatility and return skills. Linebacker Jabril Cox, another NFL draft pick, joins with a decorated college career, including three FCS National Championships. The Arlington Renegades roster also includes young prospects like quarterback John Rhys Lehnen, a two-time NCAA Division III champion, who could develop behind Perez. These additions signal a commitment to building a more balanced team.
Offensive Strategy and the Arlington Renegades Roster
The Arlington Renegades roster is built around a dynamic passing game led by Luis Perez. Coach Stoops and offensive coordinator Jonathan Himebauch plan to leverage Perez’s arm strength and decision-making, targeting receivers like Vaughns, Payton, and Deontay Burnett in the slot. Running back Kalen Ballage, a former NFL fourth-round pick, is expected to take over as the primary back, replacing De’Veon Smith in some packages. The offensive line, despite losing five players in cuts, added two linemen from the Birmingham Stallions via waivers, aiming to protect Perez and open lanes for Ballage. The Arlington Renegades roster emphasizes versatility, with tight ends like Sal Cannella contributing as both blockers and receivers. This offensive strategy aims to maintain the team’s top-tier offensive rating while improving consistency.
Defensive Improvements on the Arlington Renegades Roster
Defense was the Achilles’ heel for the 2024 Arlington Renegades roster, with the unit ranking near the bottom of the UFL. For 2025, the team prioritized bolstering this side of the ball. Returning linebacker Donald Payne Jr., who led the team with 63 tackles in 2024, anchors the unit. New additions like Amani Bledsoe and Jabril Cox add depth and athleticism. In the secondary, cornerbacks Ajene Harris and Steven Jones Jr. return with proven playmaking ability, combining for eight pass breakups and three interceptions last season. The Arlington Renegades roster also includes defensive tackle Daviyon Nixon Sr., a former NFL draft pick with All-American credentials. These changes aim to transform the defense into a championship-caliber unit, capable of supporting the high-powered offense.
Arlington Renegades Roster Cuts and Surprises
The process of finalizing the Arlington Renegades roster for 2025 involved tough decisions, with 47 players retained and several surprising cuts. Notable departures include wide receiver Juwan Manigo, a top return specialist, and defensive back Delonte Hood, who took first-team reps in camp. Offensive linemen Blake Larson, Spencer Rolland, Griffin McDowell, and Briason Mays were also released, despite their potential. The Arlington Renegades roster retained 56% of its 2024 players, balancing continuity with fresh talent. The decision to cut young prospects like Joey Asta, an NFL Draft-eligible linebacker, raised eyebrows, but the team prioritized experience to compete immediately. These moves reflect a strategic focus on addressing defensive weaknesses and building around proven performers like Perez.
Coaching Staff Supporting the Arlington Renegades Roster
Head coach Bob Stoops, a legendary figure from his Oklahoma Sooners tenure, leads the Arlington Renegades roster with a clear vision. His ability to guide the team to a 2023 XFL Championship despite a 4-6 regular season showcases his strategic acumen. Stoops is supported by offensive coordinator Jonathan Himebauch and defensive coordinator Jay Hayes, who are tasked with maximizing the roster’s potential. The coaching staff’s experience in spring football and the NFL helps integrate new players and refine strategies. The Arlington Renegades roster benefits from Stoops’ emphasis on discipline and adaptability, which will be crucial as they face tough opponents like the San Antonio Brahmas and Memphis Showboats in 2025.
Challenges Facing the Arlington Renegades Roster
Despite its strengths, the Arlington Renegades roster faces challenges in 2025. The defense, while improved, remains unproven after last season’s struggles. Integrating new players like Chris Claybrooks and Jabril Cox into the system during a short training camp could lead to early-season growing pains. The offensive line, weakened by cuts, must gel quickly to protect Perez and support the running game. Additionally, the Arlington Renegades roster faces a competitive UFL landscape, with rivals like the Birmingham Stallions and D.C. Defenders boasting strong rosters. Maintaining consistency and avoiding the self-inflicted errors that plagued 2024 will be critical. The team’s ability to address these challenges will determine whether they can return to championship form.
Expectations for the Arlington Renegades Roster in 2025
The Arlington Renegades roster is expected to contend for a playoff spot in 2025, with aspirations of another championship run. Fans are optimistic about Luis Perez’s leadership and the offensive firepower provided by Vaughns, Payton, and Ballage. The defensive improvements, particularly in the secondary and linebacker corps, give hope for a more balanced team. The Arlington Renegades roster will face a tough schedule, starting with a home game against the San Antonio Brahmas on March 29, 2025. A strong start at Choctaw Stadium could set the tone for the season. With Stoops at the helm and a revamped roster, the Renegades aim to prove they are more than their 2024 record suggests.
Community and Fan Engagement with the Arlington Renegades Roster
The Arlington Renegades roster enjoys strong support from fans, evident in events like the Renegades Fan Appreciation Day and free football camps at Choctaw Stadium. Social media platforms, including Reddit’s r/renegades and r/UnitedFootballLeague, buzz with discussions about roster moves and player performances. Fans have praised the return of Perez and expressed excitement over new additions like Claybrooks. The Arlington Renegades roster also benefits from community initiatives, such as youth camps, which strengthen ties with Arlington residents. Engaging fans through ticket promotions and interactive events will be key to building momentum as the team aims to pack Choctaw Stadium for its five home games in 2025.
Conclusion
The Arlington Renegades roster for 2025 is a carefully constructed blend of proven talent and strategic additions, designed to overcome the setbacks of 2024 and compete for a UFL championship. With Luis Perez leading the offense and new defensive players like Amani Bledsoe and Jabril Cox strengthening the unit, the team is well-positioned for success. Coach Bob Stoops’ leadership and the passionate fanbase at Choctaw Stadium add to the optimism surrounding the Arlington Renegades roster. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on how this revamped roster performs, starting with their opener against the San Antonio Brahmas. The Renegades are ready to rise again and prove they belong among the UFL’s elite.
