The path to NFL success isn’t always a straight line. Two former Birmingham Stallions players are proving that spring football can be a legitimate stepping stone to the NFL, as they continue to impress fans and coaches alike with their remarkable performances this season.

Brandon Aubrey: Setting Records in Dallas

Brandon Aubrey is redefining what’s possible for NFL kickers. The former Stallions standout made headlines in September when he drilled an incredible 65-yard field goal against the Baltimore Ravens, setting a Dallas Cowboys record. That kick put him just shy of the NFL record of 66 yards, currently held by Baltimore’s Justin Tucker.

Aubrey’s consistency has been particularly impressive. His statistics tell the story of a kicker playing with remarkable confidence:

• 13 of 14 successful attempts from 50-59 yards
• Perfect on all three attempts from 60+ yards
• An outstanding 32 of 34 conversion rate on kicks under 50 yards

This level of performance shouldn’t surprise anyone who followed his career with the Stallions, where he connected on 53 of 57 field goals. His excellence earned him NFL Special Teams Player of the Month honors for September, proving that talent can shine at any level when given the opportunity.

Dondrea Tillman: Making an Immediate Impact in Denver

The Denver Broncos may have found their next defensive star in Dondrea Tillman. The former Stallions linebacker made an unforgettable NFL debut against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, posting impressive numbers that included:

• Three tackles
• Two sacks
• Two tackles for loss
• Three quarterback hits

These stats aren’t just good – they’re historically significant. Tillman became only the fourth undrafted player since 1990 to record multiple sacks in their NFL debut. Currently serving as second-team weakside linebacker, he’s appeared in six games and continues to make his presence felt on the field.

Birmingham Stallions head coach Skip Holtz puts it best: “Seeing our Stallions in the NFL just goes to show the talent level in the UFL. It is giving them the vehicle they need to get there and then once they go get there, they are making the most of it.”

These success stories highlight an important truth about professional football: talent can emerge from any level of the game. While the traditional path to the NFL typically runs through major college programs, players like Aubrey and Tillman demonstrate that determination, skill, and the right opportunity can lead to success at the highest level.

As the NFL season continues, these former Stallions are proving that spring football isn’t just an alternative to the NFL – it can be a launching pad for exceptional talent. Their success serves as inspiration for current spring football players and reminds us that there’s more than one road to achieving professional football dreams.