Columbus, Ohio – The Columbus Aviators unveiled their 50-man roster today, marking a significant step toward the franchise’s debut season in the United Football League (UFL). The announcement follows the conclusion of the team’s training camp on Wednesday, signaling a finalization of preparations for the upcoming games. This Columbus Aviators roster blends established UFL talent with emerging players, setting the stage for what fans hope will be a competitive inaugural season.
The Aviators aren’t entering the UFL entirely without a track record. The team boasts three players who earned All-UFL honors in 2025: offensive tackle Ryan Nelson, tight end Gunnar Oakes, and cornerback Kedrick Whitehead Jr. Whitehead’s recognition extends further, having been named the 2025 UFL Special Teams Player of the Year. These veteran players are expected to provide leadership and stability as the team navigates its first season.
Offensively, the Aviators will look to build around the strengths of running back Toa Taua and quarterback Jalan McClendon. Taua proved to be a potent scoring threat in 2025, leading the UFL with six rushing touchdowns despite only appearing in seven games. McClendon, meanwhile, finished third in the league with 1,464 passing yards, demonstrating his ability to move the ball through the air. The UFL’s official website confirms these statistics as of March 23, 2026. The full roster is available on the UFL website.
A Look at the Aviators’ Positional Breakdown
The team’s composition reflects a balanced approach to both offense and defense. The roster includes three quarterbacks, three running backs, six wide receivers, three tight ends, and eight offensive linemen. Defensively, the Aviators will field eight defensive linemen, six linebackers, ten defensive backs, and three specialists. This distribution suggests a focus on both pass rush and coverage, as well as a commitment to strong special teams play.
Opening Schedule and “614 Kickoff” Celebration
The Aviators will kick off their inaugural season on the road this Sunday, March 29, with an 8 p.m. ET matchup against the Orlando Storm. Their home debut is scheduled for Friday, April 3, at 8 p.m. Against the DC Defenders at Historic Crew Stadium. The team is planning a significant event, dubbed the “614 Kickoff” celebration, to mark the occasion.
Adding to the excitement, GRAMMY® Award-nominated singer-songwriter Gavin DeGraw is slated to perform at halftime during the home opener. DeGraw’s performance is expected to draw a large crowd and create a festive atmosphere. Ticket information and details about the “614 Kickoff” celebration can be found on the team’s official website.
UFL Kickoff Challenge Offers Discounted Tickets
To encourage fan participation, the UFL is offering a special incentive during the opening weekend. The “UFL Kickoff Challenge” provides a 33 percent discount on home opener tickets purchased within a two-week window. This offer allows fans to secure discounted seats and experience the home opener celebration, including DeGraw’s halftime performance. The promotion applies across all UFL teams, aiming to generate excitement and build a strong fan base for the league.
The UFL itself represents a continuation of spring football leagues that have sought to fill a gap in the sports calendar. The league is formed from a merger between the USFL and XFL, both of which had previously attempted to establish a sustainable spring football presence. More information about the UFL and its formation can be found on the league’s official website.
The Aviators’ success will depend not only on the talent on the field but also on the team’s ability to connect with the Columbus community. Historic Crew Stadium, home to the Columbus Crew SC of Major League Soccer, provides a well-established and accessible venue for the team. The stadium’s capacity and central location are expected to contribute to a positive game-day experience for fans.
Looking ahead, the Aviators’ next confirmed checkpoint is their road game against the Orlando Storm on March 29. The team will then return to Columbus to prepare for their home opener on April 3. Fans interested in supporting the team can purchase tickets through the UFL Kickoff Challenge or visit the team’s website for more information. The launch of the UFL and the debut of the Columbus Aviators represent a new chapter for professional football in Ohio, and the coming weeks will be crucial in establishing the team’s identity and building a loyal following.
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