The Louisville Kings — a newly established United Football League (UFL) franchise set to begin play in spring 2026 at Lynn Family Stadium in Louisville — have started shaping their inaugural roster with a set of protected players drawn largely from the roster inherited from the relocated Memphis Showboats.

According to sources including Pro Football Newsroom via social posts and fan community reports, the Kings’ early protections include:

• WR JaVonta Payton (regional selection from Tennessee) — Payton is a dynamic wide receiver originally from Nashville, Tennessee, who has been a productive offensive weapon in the UFL with the Dallas Renegades. A former Mississippi State and Tennessee collegian, Payton has logged consistent receptions and overall yardage as a pro, showcasing speed and playmaking ability that made him valuable for roster retention.

• DB Cameron Dantzler — A cornerback with significant experience, Dantzler was a former NFL third‑round draft pick who starred early in his career with the Minnesota Vikings before moving into UFL play. His professional pedigree at the defensive back position gives Louisville a veteran presence in coverage.

• WR Jonathan Adams — Adams has established himself as one of the more productive receivers in spring football. A former Sun Belt Offensive Player of the Year at Arkansas State, Adams produced strong receiving numbers over his professional career across leagues including the USFL and UFL showing a blend of size, contested‑catch ability, and consistent production.

• EDGE Jaylon Allen — Louisville also protected defensive edge rusher Jaylon Allen, a pass‑rushing talent whose role will be critical in setting the tone for the Kings’ front seven. (Detailed statistical profiling for Allen in UFL play is emerging, but protections indicate the team values his disruption potential.)

These early protections highlight Louisville’s intent to build around playmakers on both sides of the ball — pairing receivers with proven route production and physical defensive talent to anchor a competitive inaugural roster. The protections are part of league rules allowing teams to retain select players from prior UFL rosters ahead of drafts and free agency as franchises reposition for the 2026 campaign.

Team Context

The Kings will be among three new UFL markets entering the 2026 season alongside the Columbus Aviators and Orlando Storm, as the league transitions and restructures several markets and team identities. Louisville’s franchise debut represents a new chapter for spring football in a city with a strong sports culture, returning professional football since earlier arena‑league efforts.