As the UFL training camp progresses, several teams have made notable roster changes between March 7 and March 8, 2026, revealing the intense competition for limited roster spots. These UFL training camp transactions highlight how franchises are recalibrating their lineups to secure the 50 players who will compete in the upcoming season.
Recent Player Transactions across the League
The UFL Communications Department announced multiple releases and signings over the past days. Houston released running back Nate McCrary, while welcoming back running back Jalen White. Birmingham added guard Zack Johnson to their roster, returning a proven All-UFL performer to their fold. Orlando, aggressively reinforcing their lineup, signed running back Jashaun Corbin and defensive tackle T.J. Smith. Meanwhile, St. Louis parted ways with linebacker Daniel Morrison.
Zack Johnson Returns to Birmingham Stallions
Zack Johnson’s return to the Birmingham Stallions marks a major coup for the team and head coach Tyler Siskey’s offense. The veteran guard, who earned All-UFL recognition in 2024, spent time in the NFL with the Detroit Lions, Cleveland Browns, and San Francisco 49ers before arriving back in the UFL. Birmingham fills a void left by Steven Gonzalez’s recent retirement, adding much-needed depth and experience to their offensive line.
Getting Zack Johnson back is HUGE.
He was arguably the best OL in the entire #UFL in 2024.Spent some time in the #NFL since then, but now he lands back in Birmingham.
Welcome home, @zackjohnson68! https://t.co/bhsMCtD7Oc pic.twitter.com/OA4M6mv2zN
— State of the Stallions 🏆🏆🏆 (@SOTStallions) March 7, 2026
Johnson’s familiarity with the league and prior excellence could be a vital component for A.J. McCarron and the Stallions as they look to strengthen their offensive front and maintain their championship window.
Houston Gamblers Shake Up Running Back Situation
The Houston Gamblers made a surprising alteration to their running back corps by releasing Nate McCrary, a dependable rusher known for his strong performances with the Michigan Panthers. Despite being anticipated as a leading back for Houston this season, McCrary was let go to make way for newcomer Jalen White.
White, a standout at Georgia Southern, made a name for himself by rushing for 3,016 yards and scoring 36 touchdowns in college, setting several school records. His consistent ability to find the end zone, including 13 touchdowns in his senior year, makes him a promising asset for the Gamblers, even if his playing style tends to emphasize steady yardage over explosive runs.
Orlando Storm Bolsters Offense and Defense
Orlando has strengthened its roster with the return of running back Jashaun Corbin, the league’s leading rusher last year with 514 yards, known for his agility and speed in open-field situations. Corbin had been absent from camp due to personal reasons but has now rejoined the team following his protection in the January roster freeze.
Said before the game that someone was going to have to step up for the @XFLBrahmas, with Anthony McFarland inactive.
How about Jashaun Corbin? He’s been absolutely incredible tonight. 57 yard TD gets San Antonio right back in it. #UFLpic.twitter.com/fpM3GlnMID
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) May 10, 2025
In addition, Orlando added defensive tackle T.J. Smith, an experienced NFL undrafted free agent who previously played for the Chargers and Vikings. Smith’s collegiate record at Arkansas includes 76 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and five sacks, and his professional tenure includes valuable on-field experience that could provide a boost to Orlando’s defensive front.
St. Louis Releases Linebacker Daniel Morrison Amid Roster Depth
St. Louis Battlehawks decided to release linebacker Daniel Morrison, a Wingate University product who represented a smaller-school prospect. This move reflects the team’s confidence in their existing linebacker depth and the competitive nature of securing a spot on the roster.
Other Notable Departures and Their Impact
Defensive end Lorenzo Mauldin IV, known for his time at Louisville and recognition as the CFL’s Defensive Player of the Year, announced his retirement at the end of last week. Mauldin was expected to play a pivotal role for the Kings’ defensive line in the upcoming season, making his exit a significant loss for the team.
Implications of These Movements on the Season Ahead
The ongoing shuffle of players during this critical phase of the UFL training camp reflects the urgency and pressure teams face to finalize competitive rosters. Veterans like Zack Johnson returning bring experience, while rookie talents like Jalen White and seasoned players such as Jashaun Corbin and T.J. Smith inject fresh energy. Teams are balancing between reinforcements and tough cuts, ensuring they build the strongest squads possible.
With the deadline looming for final roster decisions, these transactions forecast an intense season where depth, adaptability, and veteran leadership may prove decisive. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how these player movements translate into on-field performance once the season kicks off.
Released from training camp roster:
Houston
RB, Nate McCrarySigned to training camp roster:
Birmingham
G, Zack JohnsonHouston
RB, Jalen WhiteOrlando
RB, Jashaun Corbin— UFL Communications Department (@UFL_PR) March 7, 2026
Released from training camp roster:
St. Louis
LB, Daniel MorrisonSigned to training camp roster:
Orlando
DT, T.J. Smith— UFL Communications Department (@UFL_PR) March 8, 2026
Getting Zack Johnson back is HUGE.
He was arguably the best OL in the entire #UFL in 2024.
Spent some time in the #NFL since then, but now he lands back in Birmingham.
Welcome home, @zackjohnson68! https://t.co/bhsMCtD7Oc pic.twitter.com/OA4M6mv2zN
— State of the Stallions 🏆🏆🏆 (@SOTStallions) March 7, 2026
Said before the game that someone was going to have to step up for the @XFLBrahmas, with Anthony McFarland inactive.
How about Jashaun Corbin? He's been absolutely incredible tonight. 57 yard TD gets San Antonio right back in it. #UFLpic.twitter.com/fpM3GlnMID
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) May 10, 2025
