On November 27, 2024, the St. Louis Battlehawks re-signed defensive tackle Freedom Akinmoladun, strengthening their defensive front for the upcoming season. Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 278 pounds, Akinmoladun has been a key contributor on the line, making his return a significant move for the team’s defensive strategy.
Akinmoladun’s Recent Performance with the Battlehawks
In the 2025 season, Akinmoladun appeared in nine games, recording 23 tackles, including 12 solo and 11 assisted stops. His efforts also included one tackle for loss and half a sack, underscoring his consistent presence in disrupting opposing offenses. Earlier in 2024, he played in nine games, registering 14 tackles (five solo, nine assists) and one tackle for loss, contributing notably in key moments such as the XFL Conference Championship against the San Antonio Brahmas, where he tallied two assisted tackles.
Professional Journey Across NFL and USFL Teams
After going undrafted, Akinmoladun began his NFL career signing with the New York Giants in May 2019. During four preseason games that year, he made five tackles but spent most of the season on the practice squad before being released in November. Shortly after, he joined the Cincinnati Bengals, where over two seasons, he recorded two tackles in two games. His time with the Bengals ended in August 2021, and he also spent periods with the Tennessee Titans and New York Jets.
Akinmoladun’s career then extended into the USFL when the Philadelphia Stars selected him in the second round of the 2022 draft. That season, he made 23 tackles, including 14 solo stops, four tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks across 10 games. His standout performance in the USFL playoffs helped the Stars reach the championship game against the Birmingham Stallions, where he contributed five tackles and three tackles for loss.
Following his USFL success, the St. Louis Battlehawks drafted Akinmoladun in the third round of the 2023 XFL Supplemental Draft. During the 2023 season, he continued to produce solid defensive numbers, with 14 tackles, one tackle for loss, one sack, and a pass breakup over 10 games.
College Background and Impact on the Field
Before turning professional, Akinmoladun had a notable college career at Nebraska from 2015 to 2018. Over 47 games, including 41 starts, he amassed 106 tackles with an equal number of solo and assisted stops. His collegiate stats feature 14 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, a forced fumble, and two pass breakups, demonstrating his ability to influence both the run and pass defense for the Cornhuskers.
Implications of Re-Signing for the Battlehawks’ Defense
The St. Louis Battlehawks securing Akinmoladun’s services once again indicates a cautious yet hopeful approach to building a staunch defensive line. Given his consistent contributions through multiple leagues and seasons, his experience will be valuable as the Battlehawks seek to improve their defensive performance and compete at a higher level in the coming seasons. Observers will watch closely to see how his presence influences the team’s dynamics and outcomes in future games.
REMOVED FROM ROSTER:
HOUSTON
DE, Shaka ToneyADDED TO ROSTER:
DALLAS
WR, Emmanuel Butler
WR, Brian HightowerHOUSTON
WR, Julian Hicks
SS, Eli WalkerLOUISVILLE
WR, Lucky JacksonST. LOUIS
NT, Freedom Akinmoladun— UFL Communications Department (@UFL_PR) February 19, 2026
