Since the XFL was forced to suspend their 2020 season 5-games in due to COVID-19, we’ve seen a number of former XFL stars make the transition to the CLF and NFL. With both leagues getting ready for 2021, the signings continue.
Just now, via Adam Schefter, we’re learning that former Tampa Bay Vipers offensive lineman Martez Ivey has signed a one-year contract with the Carolina Panthers.
Panthers have signed free-agent offensive lineman Martez Ivey to a one-year contract, per agents @NFLrecord and @DrewJRosenhaus.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 6, 2021
The Panthers are also currently home to former Houston Roughnecks star, PJ Walker. With the huge trade yesterday, sending Same Darnold to Carolina, there have been a lot of questions on how PJ will now fit into the mix. In all reality, it all comes down to is the team wants to continue on with Terry Bridgewater…. but, that’s a story for a different day.
When XFL players become eligible to sign NFL free agent contracts ESPN listed Ivey at No. 8 due to starting for one of the best offensive lines in the league with the Vipers, who boasted the top rushing offense.
Ivey was a five star and the nation’s top-ranked offensive tackle coming out of high school. He started four years at Florida, earning Freshman All-SEC honors in 2015 and making the Second Team All-SEC his final two years in 2017 and 2018. He went undrafted last year and signed with the New England Patriots but was released during final roster cuts. He eventually went in the second round of the XFL Draft.
He played at Florida under Will Muschamp from 2012-14 and was drafted with the 95th pick in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins.
It’s always great to see these former XFL guys get a chance to continue their careers and make the jump to the NFL.
