By DUSTY SLOAN
UFLAccess Contributor
This week, after MUCH discussion about whether or not the United Football League would see the light of day, UFL training camps open up in Florida and Arizona.
We will find out early this week where each team’s 60-man training camp roster stands. But until then, consider this column some constructive criticism for each team.
What does each team need to upgrade before hitting the field next week?
- CALIFORNIA REDWOODS - The Redwoods need NFL experience at everything except punter. California is the least experienced team in the UFL in terms of any professional league, and with almost 20 spots yet to be announced, it would behoove the Redwoods to fill the remainder of those spots with players who have played NFL regular-season games.
- FLORIDA TUSKERS - Despite the addition of veteran punter Todd Sauerbrun, the focus in filling out the rest of the Tusker training camp roster should be on special teams. A veteran kicker, a veteran long snapper and a veteran return specialist all are needed to perhaps make the Tuskers unbeatable.
- LAS VEGAS LOCOMOTIVES - The Locos would be wise to fill out their training camp roster with NFL-reared offensive linemen to protect quarterbacks J.P. Losman and Tim Rattay. Other positions worth an upgrade are defensive end, cornerback and long snapper.
- NEW YORK SENTINELS - While the Sentinels have seven wide receivers on their announced roster, only one (Craphonso Thorpe) has any NFL regular-season experience. Quarterback Quinn Gray will need more help than that, and New York also should add veteran guards, linebackers and specialists.
We will find out all the answers of who will be in camps next week. Let the season begin!
My name is Matt Overton, free agent long snapper out of Western Washington University. I have spent time with the Seattle Seahawks in mini camp sessions and have had several free agent workouts. I also played in AF2, staying active and gaining experience. I notice that every team needs a snapper or at least snappers to compete for a roster spot. Ive been trying very hard to get my name with these teams. Last weekend I was in San Diego and worked out for coach Cottrell and his staff. I ran the fastest 40 amongst snappers at 4.8 and ran the fastest shuttle amongst all linebackers at 4.18. Cottrell was very impressed with my snapping abilities as well. Just takes timing and one coach to like you. I believe I should be in camp competing for a roster spot. My experience at long snapper as well as LB/DE makes me a great addition to any team. Anyone who reads this post should check out my films. Feel free to give any feedback!!! -Matt Overton, free agent long snapper
Snapping film:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_GuKnqR6GI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJkLDXpGBVo
Summer workouts:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJ-47UzG0gQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Js9luhODePA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8s7zAAtfwuI
Defense:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtJKsXJ1YxI
Combine:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAbV0G_yBOM
Punt/PAT game film:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vR5eN6IEcT8
My name is Cory Long and I was there in San Diego as well. I am excited about the UFL since it will provide some “undiscovered” talent to pro football. I am a kicker that has every quality that the UFL needs (accuracy, leg strength, height, hang time on KO’s, and a great work ethic). Even though Coach Cottrell was impressed with my field goals in San Diego, I still have not heard back. All I’m looking for is a chance to challenge any kicker and prove what I can do. Here’s a link to my scouting reel and some current clips of me kicking 4 in a row from 60+ yards.
http://www.vimeo.com/channels/corylong
I walked-on as a true freshman and started my 4-year career at Stephen F. Austin. I went on to become the 3rd all-time leading scorer in SFA’s history with 232 points and finished my senior season going 51-51 on pats. I’m proud to state that in my entire kicking career I have never had a kickoff returned for a touchdown.
Hopefully the UFL will give me a chance to prove what I can do. Any suggestions would be appreciated.