The XFL is Going to Have an Extra Team in Case Players Get Hurt and That's Wild
By Jack Murphy
The XFL is becoming known for its unorthodox rules in order to not succumb the same fate of American football leagues not named the NFL. The newest addition to the unconventional league is the addition of an extra team, though this squad won't be competing.
"Team 9" was essentially implemented for players who got left off an XFL team and can continue to take part in practices with players who are all competing for a spot on an XFL roster.
Essentially it's like a practice squad of players available for all teams to dip into when injuries occur.
“In every football league, there is constant churn.”
— XFL (@xfl2020) January 31, 2020
XFL unveils Team 9: https://t.co/HHQZoqJlMh
Not only does "Team 9" benefit players who are still chasing their dreams to play professional football. All eight XFL teams are assisted by "Team 9" as well. As these organizations are not large enough to have their own practice squads, they need a to be able to pick up players so they can maintain a full roster in case injuries arise.
XFL Team 9 news: after week 2 of the season, it’s a requirement for teams to utilize Team 9 players to plug open roster spots.
— Konnor Fulk (@XFLKonnor) January 31, 2020
As players are taken, Team 9 will constantly be restocked.
All 40 initial players will be absorbed on to active rosters by Week 6.
The Team 9 roster will consist of 40 players who will take part in practices in case they get called up to be part of one of the eight competing teams. Once week 5, rolls around the rosters will expand from 52 to 57 players and the entire Team 9 squad will be assigned to a team. Team 9 will then be re-loaded with new talent looking for their shot to play pro football.
This is certainly a unique avenue being explored by the XFL, but we have to admit it's pretty intriguing, and will grant opportunities to players when injuries inevitably arise.