On Tuesday, the United Football League (UFL) announced the signing of two promising tight ends, with Baylor Cupp joining the Dallas Renegades and Shane Calhoun added to the St. Louis Battlehawks roster. These additions aim to bolster team depth and bring fresh talent into the league’s upcoming season. The moves illustrate continued efforts to strengthen offensive options for both franchises as training camps approach.
Baylor Cupp’s Journey to the Dallas Renegades
Baylor Cupp, a standout athlete once ranked as the top tight end nationally out of North Texas, brings impressive size at 6’6” and athletic ability to Dallas. Originally recruited heavily coming out of high school, Cupp chose to play college football at Texas A&M, staying close to home despite injury setbacks that limited his playing time.
After transferring to Texas Tech, Cupp accumulated 246 receiving yards and four touchdowns, enough to attract attention from professional scouts. Despite signing with the Kansas City Chiefs and appearing in regular season action in 2024, his season was cut short by injury after only 10 snaps. Now, he aims to revive his career with the Renegades, hoping for better health and a chance to contribute at the UFL level.
Signed to training camp roster:DALLASTE, Baylor Cupp
HOUSTONCB, Clarence Lewis
ST. LOUISTE, Shane Calhoun
— UFL Communications Department (@UFL_PR) March 4, 2026
Ian Book (2) to Baylor Cupp (1)*Kansas City Chiefs10 yards pic.twitter.com/0PpeMcR8Tt
— NFL Touchdown Videos (@NFLTDsVideos) August 23, 2024
Shane Calhoun Brings Versatility to the St. Louis Battlehawks
Shane Calhoun, known for his combination of speed and skill, is expected to add a valuable offensive weapon to the Battlehawks. With a 40-yard dash time of 4.43 seconds at his pro day, Calhoun’s quickness rivals many wide receivers in the league, making him an intriguing prospect for head coach A.J. Smith, whose offense often utilizes spread formations.
Calhoun’s collegiate career began at East Carolina University, where he logged 594 receiving yards and six touchdowns over four seasons. After transferring to Texas A&M for his final year, he played more as a blocker, catching only three passes for 57 yards but demonstrating versatility. Following a brief preseason period with the Indianapolis Colts, Calhoun joins the UFL with the potential to carve out a significant role.
Texas A&M TE Shane Calhoun running his 1st 40: pic.twitter.com/qBe06uRrE4
— Tony Catalina (@Tony_Catalina) March 27, 2025
Prospects and Implications for the UFL Season
Both Baylor Cupp and Shane Calhoun bring unique attributes to their new teams, offering a blend of size, speed, and experience that could influence offensive strategies in the United Football League. Cupp’s quest for durability and performance after injury, combined with Calhoun’s speed and blocking skills, set intriguing storylines heading into the season.
The UFL’s focus on developing emerging talent like these players reflects its role as a platform for athletes seeking to prove themselves beyond the NFL or other leagues. Fans will be watching closely to see how these tight ends adapt and contribute, potentially impacting the playoff races and offensive dynamics in the months ahead.
Signed to training camp roster:
DALLAS
TE, Baylor CuppHOUSTON
CB, Clarence LewisST. LOUIS
TE, Shane Calhoun— UFL Communications Department (@UFL_PR) March 4, 2026
Ian Book (2) to Baylor Cupp (1)*
Kansas City Chiefs
10 yards pic.twitter.com/0PpeMcR8Tt— NFL Touchdown Videos (@NFLTDsVideos) August 23, 2024
Texas A&M TE Shane Calhoun running his 1st 40: pic.twitter.com/qBe06uRrE4
— Tony Catalina (@Tony_Catalina) March 27, 2025
