Week one of the UFL’s 2026 season concludes tonight. It’s a unique matchup, as the Orlando Storm and Columbus Aviators will take to the field for the first time in each of their own franchise’s history.
There are plenty of unknowns heading into tonight. While we are all familiar with Anthony Becht’s coaching style – that’s about all we know. These two teams have brand new rosters, featuring loads of first-timers in the UFL.
Let’s take a look at what we can expect to go down in Orlando later tonight.
Quarterback Play
The Orlando Storm have opted to start Jack Plummer over Dorian Thompson-Robinson. It was an incredibly tight battle in camp, but Jack – the former Carolina Panther – earns the week one start. While the NFL didn’t treat him too kindly, Plummer is an intriguing prospect at this level. He’s got a massive frame, at 6’5”, and boasts a strong arm which should be capable of doing some serious damage in the UFL. Jack’s got strong leadership skills as well, which should bode well with the Storm’s style of coaching.
In Columbus, Jalan McClendon finally gets the week one start for the first time in his pro career. He proved to everyone in Houston last year why he deserves that opportunity. McClendon, albeit a pocket passer, does have sneaky mobility when it comes to escaping pressure. However, what makes him his money is his absolute cannon of an arm. In fact, sometimes that velocity can get him in trouble, as he’s a “one-speed” thrower.
If Jalan can show growth with Todd Haley, and develop some touch on the football – the sky isn’t even the limit for this Aviators offense.
Standout Playmakers
Orlando’s offense has true potential to be lethal. Plummer has no shortage of weapons to throw the football to. This wide receiver room alone features K.J. Hamler, a former second round NFL draft pick with the Broncos. We got to see his talents on display a couple of weeks ago at practice – he’s unreal. Watch for K.J. to be active early and often. On top of that, WR’s Chris Rowland, Elijhah Badger, and Aron Cruickshank should all be contributors.
The Storm’s ground game is also going to be tremendous. With Art Valero and Marc Colombo coaching up the guys in the trenches and backfield, there’s no telling what Jashaun Corbin (All-UFL) is capable of this year. Add Tre Stewart and Elijah Dotson into the mix as backs with legitimate NFL potential – it’s scary.
Columbus will need Toa Taua to produce early to give themselves a shot at overcoming a stacked Orlando team on the road. Taua, the Michigan Panthers legend, led the UFL last year in rushing touchdowns. This year, he’s looking even more spry and fast – while maintaining his bruising capabilities as well. To add to that, long-time UFL vets in ZaQuandre White and John Lovett are also available.
A new name to watch closely in Columbus this year: Antwane Wells. They call him “Juice”, and for good reason. His speed is next level, and he’s got route running abilities any NFL coach would envy.
Two Defenses, Same Story
Looking at the roster breakdowns for both of these defenses – they’ve got some similarities. Up front, they’ve got a few big names who can wreck havoc. On Columbus’ end, they roster Caeveon Patton and Kenny Willekes – two spring vets who should terrorize quarterbacks and backfields all season long.
See also
In Orlando, Isaiah Buggs and Isaiah Mack will lead the charge in the trenches. On the edge, Keshawn Banks is a new arrival that has shown plenty of promise. Also – keep an eye out for Chris Garrett to produce. He’s been a rotational piece for St. Louis for two seasons, but finally has the opportunity to be a starter.
On the backend, it’s a mix of guys who have a lot of experience (i.e. Tony Fields in Columbus, Tavante Beckett in Orlando), alongside new faces.
Depth Chart Notes
Columbus
Aaron Monteiro moves to tackle and will start, alongside Chuck Filiaga, Ryan Nelson, Cohl Cabral, and Matt Farniok at center
Tay Martin, Roc Taylor, Keke Chism listed as WR1’s
Kenny Willekes and Ron Stone Jr.; who shared the field in Michigan last year, start at EDGE
Henry Black and Akeem Dent, both backup safeties last year, will start
Orlando
Starting O-Line: Jason Ivey, Michael Gonzalez, Cole Schneider, Joey Fisher, Samuel Jackson
Shawn Bowman starting at TE over Steven Stilianos
Pheldarius Payne, former Battlehawks draft pick, starting at DT
Micah Abraham, son of DC Donnie Abraham, set to start
Coaching Matchup
Orlando Storm, Anthony Becht: Becht makes his Orlando debut, after three seasons of success in St. Louis. While the team never made it to a Championship, Anthony’s won 22 of 30 regular season matchups, and has always found success despite quarterback injuries and turnover. Just his experience alone gives the Storm a true advantage in this game.
Columbus Aviators, Ted Ginn Jr.: On the other hand, Ted Ginn Jr. makes his coaching debut, period. He’s never coached outside of youth football, but now is leading a professional team in a brand new market. So far, things have gone well for Ted in camp – but it remains to be seen if that will translate to the football field on Sunday night.
Final Thoughts
Whatever ends up happening tonight – it’s going to be a party. DJ Khaled will be performing the halftime show at Inter&Co Stadium, and it should be an all-time classic for spring football. With the momentum of having a week one home opener, paired up with Anthony Becht at Head Coach – we’re taking Orlando to win this one.
To secure your tickets for the game, which are less than $20! – you can do so here.
Full Roster Breakdowns: Orlando, Columbus
What are your thoughts on this upcoming game between the Orlando Storm and Columbus Aviators? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
