Birmingham Stallions defensive lineman Willie Yarbary is set to be one of the United Football League’s (UFL) most impactful players heading into the 2025 season. As the UFL continues to establish itself as a premier professional football destination, players like Yarbary exemplify the league’s high-caliber talent pool.

From winning championships to singing on America’s Got Talent, the 6’3″, 295-pound UFL standout brings more than just his impressive physical presence to the field. Yarbary has become a cornerstone of Birmingham’s defense, helping lead the Stallions to championship glory and establishing himself as one of the UFL’s most versatile defenders.

“The opportunity to play in the UFL has been amazing,” Yarbary says of his role in the growing league. “To be able to continue my football career at a high level and to create a legacy with this organization are the cherries on top. I truly don’t take this opportunity for granted. So many people have the talent and skillset to play in the UFL and the NFL, but not all have the opportunities to do so. I’m grateful that I have been so blessed.”

For Yarbary, his championship victory stands as a defining moment in UFL history. “Winning that game came with a rollercoaster of emotions,” he recalls of the historic win. “From having a significant lead in the first half to falling behind early in the fourth. Ultimately, we found a way to secure the win and put an end to the historical and inaugural season for the Stallions. I can never forget the level of joy that we possessed that day. The start of a dynasty.”

The Augusta, Georgia native, who’s expected to be a key UFL player in 2025, began his journey at Wake Forest, where he developed into a formidable defensive presence. As a redshirt junior in 2017, he started all 13 games, recording 30 tackles, 4.0 sacks, and 7.5 tackles for loss. His collegiate career showcased the skills that would later make him a valuable asset in professional football and the UFL.

Beyond his contributions to the UFL’s growing reputation for quality football, Yarbary showcases the diverse talents of UFL players. He’s a member of the NFL Players Choir, which has performed at prestigious events including NFL Honors, Super Bowl Soulful, and even competed on America’s Got Talent. He’s also developed a passion for pickleball, claiming to be “hands down the best pickleball player on the team,” along with being a formidable ping-pong competitor.

As the 2025 UFL season approaches, Yarbary balances his professional preparations with family life, having recently welcomed a baby boy. He’s also found time to compete in his first pickleball tournament, though he admits with a laugh that victory eluded him in that particular endeavor.

One of his favorite memories with the Stallions involves Coach Holtz’s introduction of “Milkshake Tuesdays” after wins. “I think that made everyone’s day when we first experienced it,” Yarbary shares. “Milkshake Tuesdays really incentivized us to want to win every game down in Alabama. During that time, we were in the hot period of the summer. I loved finishing practice and could look forward to a cool treat.”

As the UFL continues to grow in 2025, players like Yarbary represent the league’s commitment to both athletic excellence and personal character. His journey exemplifies the opportunities the UFL provides for talented players to continue their professional careers while making meaningful impacts both on and off the field.

For fans looking to follow UFL players in the 2025 season, Yarbary’s combination of championship experience, defensive prowess, and engaging personality makes him one of the league’s most compelling stories to watch.