The 2026 UFL season is set to kick off this weekend, and it's an exciting time for fans of South Carolina football. Four former Gamecocks are ready to make their mark on the field with their respective teams, while others bring their expertise to coaching roles across the league.
First up, defensive lineman Taylor Stallworth will be anchoring the defense for the St. Louis Battlehawks as they host the DC Defenders. This matchup is scheduled for Saturday at noon, and you can catch all the action on ESPN.
Stallworth, who last played in the NFL in 2022, brings a wealth of experience to the Battlehawks. Over five NFL seasons with teams like the Saints, Colts, Chiefs, and Texans, he played in 57 games, racking up 51 tackles and 4.5 sacks. During his college days at South Carolina, Stallworth was a force, logging 87 tackles and a sack over four seasons.
Meanwhile, the Columbus Aviators are set to feature several Gamecocks both on the field and on the sidelines. Running back ZaQuandre White, along with cornerbacks Cam Smith and O'Donnell Fortune, will don the Aviators' colors. Adding to the Gamecock connection, Captain Munnerlyn will guide the defense as the team's coordinator.
The Aviators are gearing up to face the Orlando Storm on Sunday evening, with an 8 p.m. kickoff. ESPN will be covering this exciting matchup as well.
ZaQuandre White is coming off a season with the Houston Roughnecks, where he impressed with 304 rushing yards and four touchdowns. Before that, he had a stint with the DC Defenders in 2024, and during his time at South Carolina, he was a dual threat with 642 rushing yards and two touchdowns, plus 198 receiving yards and three scores.
Cam Smith, a standout in college, was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft. Over two seasons, he appeared in 21 games and made 18 tackles. His college career was highlighted by 91 tackles, 24 pass breakups, and six interceptions.
O'Donnell Fortune, after a stellar final season at South Carolina in 2024, signed with the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent. His college stats include 108 tackles, 16 pass breakups, and seven interceptions, showcasing his knack for making big plays.
As the UFL season unfolds, these former Gamecocks are poised to bring their talent and tenacity to the league, making this weekend's games must-watch events for fans everywhere.