As the United Football League prepares to kick off another spring football season, many NFL talent evaluators will be watching closely. The Pittsburgh Steelers have a history of signing standout UFL players to bolster their roster ahead of training camp. These players often arrive highly conditioned and motivated, giving them a legitimate chance to compete for a roster spot.
A strong performance in the UFL can open the door to a fresh opportunity at an NFL training camp.
Following a strong start to free agency, the Steelers have slowed down their activity. They managed to sign several free agents with notable names, but that doesn't mean they won't consider adding some UFL talent once they become free agents after the season concludes. The United Football League will kick off its campaign this weekend, and they have quality talent to watch out for.
Pittsburgh Steelers could sign UFL superstars as free agents following their season
Roc Taylor, WR, Columbus Aviators
After a solid start to training camp with Pittsburgh last year, Roc Taylor was a surprising cut. A former undrafted free agent from last year’s draft, many believed he had a legitimate chance to make the roster. Taylor possesses several traits that could translate well to the NFL level. Still young in his development, a strong season in Columbus could put him in a position to earn another opportunity.
Siaki Ika, DT, Dallas Renegades
A former pre-draft visitor of the Steelers in 2023, Siaki Ika could be under consideration if he performs well in the UFL. He is a massive defensive tackle with some NFL experience under his belt. Ika was a third-round pick by the Cleveland Browns, but he failed to live up to that billing. He fell out of the NFL following 2024 and has struggled to rebound. Perhaps the UFL could return him to good graces.
KJ Hamler, WR, Orlando Storm
Speed is the defining trait of KJ Hamler, and he could emerge as a low-cost alternative to Calvin Austin III for the Steelers.
A former second-round pick in 2020, Hamler spent last year with Buffalo during training camp. If he can showcase his speed and playmaking ability during a strong United Football League season, it could earn him another NFL opportunity. Pittsburgh may be in the market for additional wide receiver help, depending on how the draft unfolds.
Curtis Jacobs, LB, DC Defenders
For undrafted free agents, earning a spot in the NFL is always an uphill battle. Curtis Jacobs has gone from a standout at Penn State to fighting for a place on an NFL roster. His path likely hinges on excelling on special teams, an area where the Steelers could use added depth. If Jacobs performs well in DC and proves he can be a reliable contributor on special teams, he could earn an opportunity.
Gareth Warren, OG, Houston Gamblers
He spent time with the Steelers during last year’s training camp, and a return remains a possibility. Gareth Warren worked his way from a tryout into a notable training camp opportunity. The versatile offensive lineman could see his stock rise with a strong showing in the UFL. To earn another NFL chance, Warren will need to prove he can be dependable and effective as a depth option.
Pittsburgh may look to add reinforcements along the offensive line once training camp arrives.
Colby Wadman, P, Birmingham Stallions
Despite adding Cameron Johnston as a free agent earlier in the offseason, the Steelers could still benefit from competition in the punting unit. With Corliss Waitman no longer on the roster, bringing in a UFL punter remains a possibility. One name to watch is Colby Wadman. While he is on the older side at 30 years old, he does bring two years of NFL experience. Wadman could challenge Johnston.
Florian Bierbaumer, TE, Louisville Kings
After losing Connor Heyward and moving on from Jonnu Smith, Pittsburgh could use additional depth at the tight end position. Finding a reliable third option to round out the group would be a smart move. The United Football League offers several intriguing candidates, but Florian Bierbaumer stands out.
The Australian put up impressive production in the Euro League and could emerge as a hidden gem at the UFL level.