Trio of former offensive Aggies named to XFL Draft pool
COLLEGE STATION - The XFL is hoping to contend as the next spring football league. Despite negative feedback surrounding the player's salary and the regiment of safety, XFL owner Vince McMahon believes the second stint of the league will be promising for the future.
Several former Texas A&M players have inquired interest surrounding the new league. With a chance to continue their playing careers, all options have been kept open. With the final list being announced Friday afternoon, three more former Maroon and White members have joined the list.
Running backs Keith Ford and Christine Michael highlight the list of speedsters in Friday's class. Both found success in College Station before a brief, yet productive careers at the NFL level.
Ford spent three seasons with the Aggies following his transfer from Oklahoma in 2015. A consistent player for Kevin Sumlin's offense, the versatile runner worked in as part of A&M dynamic duos on the ground. In two seasons, Ford finished with 1,217 yards and 18 rushing touchdowns.
Following going undrafted in 2018, Ford would sign with the Buffalo Bills, earning a place on their practice squad. He'd rush for 79 during three games before being waived. This past offseason, Ford was a member of both the Indianapolis Colts and Green Bay Packers.
Perhaps best known for his speed and special teams skills, Michael shined for the Aggies throughout four seasons. Finishing with 2,791 yards and 34 touchdowns, the 28-year-old helped A&M transition from the Big 12 to the SEC, including playing a role in the team's upset victory over then No.1 Alabama.
Drafted in the second round by the Seattle Seahawks, Michael was expected to compete for a starting role. Injuries and lack of production ended up forcing him to bounce around the league. Michael has spent time with Seahawks (2013-14, 15-16) along with the Dallas Cowboys (2015), Green Bay Packers (2016), and Indianapolis Colts (2017-18).
For his career, Michael rushed for 1,089 yards and scored seven touchdowns.
Fellow former Sooner turned Aggie Trevor Knight will hope to become the face of an XFL program under center. The former Boomer who defeated Alabama in the Sugar Bowl in 2013 transferred to College Station in 2016. During his one season as the Aggies signal-caller, Knight threw for 2,432 yards, 19 touchdowns and seven interceptions.
The Aggies would finish with an 8-5 record under Knight's leadership. Knight would sign with the Arizona Cardinals as an undrafted free agent before being a member of the Atlanta Falcons practice squad in 2017.
Knight will be a veteran to spring football following his time in the now-debunked AAF. Drafted sixth overall by the Arizona Hotshots, the 26-year-old quarterback played in two games while competing against current Los Angeles Rams quarterback John Wolford.
Ford, Michael, and Knight will join former Aggies Cam Clear, Nate Askew, Austin Frey, Shane Tripucka, and Trey Williams in the initial draft pool. The XFL Draft will take place on October 15-16, featuring over 70 rounds and near 700 players to select from.
For a list of all XFL eligible players, visit XFL.com.
