As the inaugural United Football League (UFL) season concludes with the championship game, the league takes a moment to honor the standout performers of 2024. From players who dominated on the field to those who made significant impacts off it, the UFL’s awards celebrate the best of professional football’s newest league.

Most Valuable Player: Adrian Martinez, Birmingham Stallions

Birmingham Stallions quarterback Adrian Martinez has been named the 2024 UFL Most Valuable Player. Martinez led the league in rushing yards (528) during the regular season and was among the top passers with 1,750 passing yards and 15 touchdowns. His dual-threat capabilities were on full display as he contributed to 18 touchdowns (15 passing, 3 rushing), showcasing his versatility and leadership.

Martinez set several UFL records, including the single-game mark for touchdown passes (four) and total touchdowns (five) in a game against Memphis. His standout performances, including two 300-yard passing games and a 138-yard rushing game, cemented his status as the league’s premier player.

Offensive Player of the Year: Hakeem Butler, St. Louis Battlehawks

Hakeem Butler of the St. Louis Battlehawks earned the Offensive Player of the Year award after leading the UFL in receiving yards (652) and yards per catch (14.5). Butler’s ability to make big plays was evident, with multiple 100-yard receiving games and some of the longest touchdown receptions of the season, including an 80-yard score against the DC Defenders. His consistency and explosive plays made him a key weapon for the Battlehawks.

Defensive Player of the Year: Breeland Speaks, Michigan Panthers

Michigan Panthers’ Breeland Speaks was named Defensive Player of the Year, leading the league with 9.5 sacks and 13 tackles for loss. Speaks’ dominance on the defensive line was unmatched, with two games where he recorded three sacks. His disruptive presence in the backfield and ability to make key plays in crucial moments underscored his value to the Panthers’ defense.

Special Teams Player of the Year: Chris Garrett, St. Louis Battlehawks

Chris Garrett of the St. Louis Battlehawks was honored as the Special Teams Player of the Year. Garrett’s impact was felt throughout the season with two crucial blocked punts, including one that set up a potential game-winning drive. His tenacity on special teams was also highlighted by his 14 tackles, making him a standout in the often-overlooked phase of the game.

Coach of the Year: Mike Nolan, Michigan Panthers

Mike Nolan of the Michigan Panthers received the Coach of the Year award after engineering a remarkable turnaround for his team. Under Nolan’s leadership, the Panthers improved their record to 7-3, significantly outperforming their previous season. Nolan’s strategic acumen and ability to maximize his team’s potential were key to the Panthers’ success this season.

Sportsman of the Year: Darius Victor, Memphis Showboats

Darius Victor of the Memphis Showboats was named the UFL Sportsman of the Year, an award that recognizes a player who exemplifies excellence on the field and commitment to community service. Victor’s leadership and sportsmanship were evident as he participated in numerous community initiatives in both the Dallas-Ft. Worth area and Memphis. As a team captain, Victor led by example, both in his community efforts and his performance on the field, where he led the Showboats in rushing yards and touchdowns.

2024 All-UFL Team

Offense:

• Quarterback: Adrian Martinez, Birmingham Stallions
• Running Back: Jacob Saylors, St. Louis Battlehawks
• Wide Receivers: Hakeem Butler, St. Louis Battlehawks; Daewood Davis, Memphis Showboats; Marcus Simms, Michigan Panthers
• Tight End: Jace Sternberger, Birmingham Stallions
• Offensive Tackles: Jaryd Jones-Smith, St. Louis Battlehawks; Bobby Evans, Arlington Renegades
• Offensive Guards: Zack Johnson, Birmingham Stallions; Kohl Levao, San Antonio Brahmas
• Center: Mike Panasiuk, St. Louis Battlehawks

Defense:

• Defensive Line: Carlos Davis, Birmingham Stallions; Daniel Wise, Michigan Panthers
• Edge/Outside Linebackers: Chris Odom, Houston Roughnecks; Breeland Speaks, Michigan Panthers
• Inside Linebackers: Tavante Beckett, San Antonio Brahmas; Willie Harvey, St. Louis Battlehawks
• Cornerbacks: Deandre Baker, DC Defenders; Nate Brooks, Michigan Panthers; Ajene Harris, Arlington Renegades
• Safeties: Kai Nacua, Michigan Panthers; A.J. Thomas, Birmingham Stallions

Special Teams:

• Kicker: Jake Bates, Michigan Panthers
• Punter: Marquette King, Arlington Renegades
• Long Snapper: Jordan Ober, Michigan Panthers
• Return Specialist: Chris Rowland, DC Defenders

Conclusion

The inaugural UFL season has been a showcase of remarkable talent, dedication, and community spirit. As the Birmingham Stallions prepare to face the San Antonio Brahmas in the UFL Championship Game, the league celebrates the outstanding achievements of its players and coaches who have set a high standard for future seasons.