Could The XFL, USFL Merger Talks Help Or Hinder HBCU, FCS Players?

Could the new merger talks between the XFL and USFL help or hinder HBCU and FCS players auditioning for the NFL?

HOUSTON - Could the merger talks between the XFL and USFL help or hinder HBCU and FCS players auditioning for the NFL?  According to Axios reporters Tim Baysinger, Dan Primack, and Sara Fischer, serious merger discussions are taking place between the XFL and USFL.  The XFL ownership consists of Dany Garcia, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, and RedBird Capital Partners. Fox Corp. owns the rights to the USFL.  

The reports state that negotiations are underway regarding the operational aspects of the new entity.  Significant consideration regarding the current media and broadcasting rights of each entity must be hammered out before finalizing a deal.  The USFL currently has an agreement with NBC, while the XFL is a media partner with Disney.

Courtesy of Jackson State University

How will this impact football players at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) schools?

The NFL still needs to put more effort into creating a developmental league for up-and-coming players.  However, they have been clever in reviewing players' performances and signing them to rookie minicamps and training camp rosters, which has led to the signing of several players from historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs).  

Dwayne Johnson and the XFL are dedicated to supporting HBCU football players.  Last season, the league held tryouts for athletes at HBCU centers in professional stadiums nationwide, including one at Jackson State University.  Coach Prime and Johnson spoke to ESPN about the importance of the XFL for HBCU players with aspirations of playing professionally.

Regulatory approval on the merger is required before the new operations can commence in 2024.  The NFL will continue to use the 16 teams from the XFL and USFL to evaluate talent, especially HBCUs and FCS programs. Both leagues gave undrafted free-agent players and rookies a platform to showcase their skills on a professional level.  

There shouldn't be a negative impact on providing more chances for HBCU and FCS players.  As the legendary Coach Eddie Robinson would say, "All they need is an opportunity."  The merger will provide those athletes the extra time to mature and evolve into National Football League talent.