Week 9 of the United Football League competition has drawn to a close. The Pittsburgh Steelers are keeping tabs on the talent in the UFL during their spring campaign as it marches forward. With only one week of regular season play left on the schedule, some players could get signed once they become free agents. Other clubs that make the playoffs must wait until the end of their season.
Some intriguing players could help Pittsburgh's roster.
Omar Khan shouldn't throw a bag of money at any possible free-agent targets from the UFL, but he should consider some of their players. They will be well-conditioned and ready to hit the field on day one. It could give them an upper hand over any possible roster competition they might face. Khan has signed spring football players before, and he should consider doing so once again.
UFL stars that the Pittsburgh Steelers should consider signing
Cornell Powell, WR, DC Defenders
The DC Defenders remain one of the strongest contenders in the United Football League. Their quarterback remains in the MVP chase even though he missed time this past contest. DC put up a fight but couldn't get a win in Week 9. Still, one player stood out among the rest in this matchup. Cornell Powell had a career day for the Defenders, which was hard to rival around the UFL.
Powell produced eight catches for 104 yards, with two touchdowns.
He had a breakout day, and it wouldn't shock many to see him get NFL buzz over the next couple of weeks. The veteran receiver is a former fifth-round pick out of Clemson who is looking for his first NFL shot since 2024. Powell has a decent pedigree and could be someone to help push the Steelers' receivers near the bottom of the roster.
READ MORE: These ex-Steelers are using the UFL to claw back into the NFL
Keaton Ellis, S, Memphis Showboats
Khan would be wise to consider adding someone in the secondary from the UFL or another free agent. The Steelers have some options on their roster, but they could get a boost from signing Keaton Ellis. He has become a bright spot on a forgetful Memphis Showboats team. Adding him to Pittsburgh's roster would give them another piece to the puzzle at training camp.
Ellis has produced a strong season in the United Football League, but he has caught on fire lately. Week 9 rivaled some of his best outings after he made eight tackles and one tackle for loss. He hasn't created much in terms of turnovers, but he continues to be a reliable last line of defense. Ellis played at Penn State, and his local connection could get him a shot with the Steelers.
J'Mar Smith, QB, Birmingham Stallions
The Birmingham Stallions have been hit with the injury bug at their quarterback position. They have lost three quarterbacks to injury this year, but they lucked out with J'Mar Smith being available. He jumped into the starting role as their quarterbacks dropped like flies. Each signal caller who has taken the reins has played well, which is a testament to the quality coaching they've received.
Smith jumped onto the field and might've salvaged the Stallions' season. He completed 22 of 31 passes for 306 yards and two touchdowns. He also led Birmingham in rushing with 31 yards on the ground. Not only was that a terrific outing, but it rivals some of the best quarterback performances by a UFL quarterback this season.
Smith could be a fantastic practice squad player for the Steelers if they want to add more talent at QB.