By: Omar Saulters
The Arlington Renegades, a prominent team in the revived XFL, have made a significant move by claiming the rights to Tyler Roberts, a talented tight end from Merrimack College.
The announcement comes after an impressive showing by Roberts at the XFL Combine, which piqued the interest of the Renegades’ coaching staff and management.
Roberts, who had a standout collegiate career, displayed his prowess as a junior fullback/tight end at Merrimack College. In 2018, he earned recognition by being selected for the NE10 All-Rookie Team, a testament to his early promise in the game. His skill continued to flourish, culminating in being named to the NEC First Team All-Conference and the All-New England selection in 2021.
During his junior year, Roberts showcased his versatility on the field, participating in all 11 games and amassing an impressive stat line. He hauled 52 receptions for 535 yards and six touchdowns, delivering standout performances like a memorable game where he secured nine receptions and two touchdowns. Despite adversity during his senior year, when he was limited to only six games due to a knee injury, Roberts remained committed to his dream of playing professionally.
Undaunted by not being drafted due to his injury, Roberts held onto the aspiration he had harbored since childhood – the desire to play in the NFL. His perseverance is grounded in the understanding that success stories often emerge from players either drafted late or not, as evident in the NFL’s composition.
Roberts’s journey, he notes, has been a gradual and steady ascent, not an overnight transformation. From his early days in Wilmington, he was resolute in his ambition, as even his school essays revolved around his dream of playing in the NFL. With the opportunity presented by the Arlington Renegades, Roberts aspires to the next level.
Approaching the season with enthusiasm and determination, Roberts comprehends the significance of this step in his journey. The XFL is a platform to acclimate players to an NFL playbook and schedule rigors. Roberts’s ultimate goal remains clear: securing a spot on the Arlington Renegades, marking a new chapter in his football odyssey.
As the Arlington Renegades claim the rights to this remarkable young talent, Tyler Roberts’s story of perseverance and dedication continues in the promising realm of the XFL.
Featured Image via Merrimack College Athletics