Monitoring former Nebraska Cornhuskers on UFL rosters as the 2025 spring football season approaches

As the 2025 spring football season approaches, the United Football League (UFL), formed from the merger of the USFL and XFL, features several former Nebraska Cornhuskers aiming to make significant impacts on their respective teams. Here’s a closer look at these athletes and their professional journeys:

Adrian Martinez – Quarterback, Birmingham Stallions

Adrian Martinez, a dynamic dual-threat quarterback, had a notable collegiate career with the Nebraska Cornhuskers from 2018 to 2021 before transferring to Kansas State for the 2022 season. At Nebraska, Martinez started 38 games, amassing 9,752 passing yards, 51 passing touchdowns, and 45 rushing touchdowns. After a brief stint with the Detroit Lions in 2023, he joined the Birmingham Stallions in the UFL. In the 2024 season, Martinez’s versatility was on full display as he earned league MVP honors and led the Stallions to a UFL Championship, securing the Championship MVP title. citeturn0search1

Carlos Davis – Defensive Lineman, Birmingham Stallions

Carlos Davis, known for his strength and agility on the defensive line, played for Nebraska from 2015 to 2019. He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2020 and had subsequent stints with the Atlanta Falcons. In 2024, Davis transitioned to the UFL, joining the Birmingham Stallions alongside Martinez. His performance was instrumental in the team’s defensive success, earning him All-UFL team honors. citeturn0search1

Freedom Akinmoladun – Defensive End, St. Louis BattleHawks

Freedom Akinmoladun showcased his defensive prowess at Nebraska from 2015 to 2018. After spending time with NFL teams such as the New York Giants and Cincinnati Bengals, he joined the St. Louis BattleHawks in the UFL in 2023. Akinmoladun quickly became a cornerstone of the BattleHawks’ defense, known for his explosive speed and power off the edge. citeturn0search1

Kade Warner – Wide Receiver, San Antonio Brahmas

Kade Warner, son of Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner, played for Nebraska from 2017 to 2020 before transferring to Kansas State. Despite going undrafted in the NFL, Warner signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023 but was released during the season. He joined the San Antonio Brahmas in the UFL in 2024, where his precise route-running and reliable hands have made him a valuable asset to the team’s receiving corps. citeturn0search1

Austin Allen – Tight End, Arlington Renegades

Austin Allen, a towering 6-foot-8 tight end, had a standout career at Nebraska from 2017 to 2021, culminating in a First-team All-Big Ten selection. After brief stints with the New York Giants and Green Bay Packers, Allen signed with the Arlington Renegades in the UFL in early 2025. Known for his dependable hands and blocking abilities, he aims to revitalize his professional career under head coach Bob Stoops. citeturn0search5

Garrett Nelson – Linebacker, Omaha Nighthawks

Garrett Nelson played for Nebraska from 2019 to 2022, earning recognition for his relentless pursuit and leadership on defense. Although he did not secure a spot in the NFL, Nelson joined the Omaha Nighthawks in the UFL for the 2023 season. His hard-hitting style and adaptability have been evident as he transitioned to the professional level. citeturn0search1

Jordan Ober – Long Snapper, Las Vegas Locomotives

Jordan Ober served as Nebraska’s long snapper from 2015 to 2018. In 2019, he joined the Las Vegas Locomotives in the UFL, where his precision and consistency in special teams play were highly valued. citeturn0search1

These former Nebraska Cornhuskers have embraced the opportunities presented by the UFL, demonstrating resilience and dedication as they continue their professional football careers. As the 2025 UFL season unfolds, fans will be keenly watching these athletes, hopeful that they can translate their collegiate successes into impactful performances on the professional stage.