Hopefully the third time is the charm for the XFL and football fans. Now under an ownership group led by Dwyane “the Rock” Johnson, the XFL is planning on a spring football season. Recently, the league held the first phase of its draft. The phase was dedicated to offensive skill positions, i.e. running back, wide receiver, tight end, and fullback. Among those drafted on the first day are several former Packers from the 2020 squad.
Wide Receiver: Darrius Shepherd
Darrius Shepherd played for the Green Bay Packers for two seasons: 2019 and 2020. He received some looks at kick returner during both seasons, but failed to produce. In 2020, he had five receptions for 46 yards in eight games.
Shepherd was the first former Packers player drafted into this edition of the XFL. He was taken with the 34th overall pick by the St. Louis Battlehawks. The Battlehawks will be coached by former NFL tight end Anthony Becht, who played for the St. Louis Rams in 2008.
After being released by the Packers following the 2020 season, Shepherd spent time with the Arizona Cardinals, Kansas City Chiefs, Minnesota Vikings, and Denver Broncos. He did not see any game action and was assigned to the practice squads on these teams.
In 2021, Shepherd was drafted by the New Jersey Generals of the USFL. Last season, he led the team with 27 receptions and 323 receiving yards.
Running Back: Dexter Williams
For a while, there was talk that Dexter Williams would make the Packers 53-man roster this season. Of course, he did not make the team. Earlier this year, played with the Philadelphia Stars of the USFL.
Williams played for the Packers in 2019 and 2020 after being selected by the team in the sixth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. In those two seasons, Williams had a combined seven rushes for 19 yards.
After being released by the Packers, Williams spent time on the practice squads of the New York Giants, Cleveland Browns, and Miami Dolphins.
Williams was drafted into the XFL with the 74th overall pick by the Arlington Renegades.
For More Great Wisconsin Sports Content
Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19 and follow us @WiSportsHeroics for more great content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in Wisconsin sports, click here!
