It has been a while since he played; however, reports (Sports Illustrated) are coming in that The UFL is interested in former Texas Superstar QB (Texas A&M), Kellen Mond.
Kellen Mond: Could the UFL Rebirth Revive His Football Career?
The name Kellen Mond might not be lighting up NFL headlines anymore, but according to recent reports from Sports Illustrated, the former Texas A&M superstar quarterback has garnered interest from the rebooted United Football League (UFL), formed by the merger of the XFL and USFL. This news has reignited discussions about Mond’s potential and whether the UFL could offer him a platform to reignite his football career.
Mond’s college career was nothing short of electrifying. He led the Aggies to a 9-4 record in his senior year, showcasing his impressive arm talent, mobility, and leadership qualities. He started 46 games, passed for nearly 9,700 yards (a school record), threw 71 touchdowns and 27 interceptions, and had a 59% completion percentage. Mond also rushed for 1,609 yards and totaled 22 rushing touchdowns. Despite his collegiate success, Mond’s transition to the professional ranks wasn’t as smooth.
Drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Mond found himself primarily as a backup behind Kirk Cousins. He saw limited playing time, throwing for just 5 yards and on 2 completions (per pro football reference) in his rookie season. He moved on and off of the Browns squad before they waived him in August 2023. As of October 10, 2023, he signed with the Colts practice squad. With the bouncing around the league he has done to this point, we have to ask, is his career coming to a close already?
So, what does the UFL offer Mond that the NFL couldn’t? Here are a few factors to consider:
Increased Playing Time:
As a “developmental” league, the UFL is known for providing more playing opportunities to young quarterbacks. That said, this is still pro football and the floor for players talent is much higher than that in college. Unlike the established NFL, where established veterans often dominate the starting positions, the UFL could offer Mond a chance to showcase his skills regularly. This could be crucial for his development and potentially pave the way for a future return to the NFL.
Less Pressure, More Experimentation:
The UFL environment is generally less pressurized compared to the NFL. This could allow Mond to experiment with his game, take calculated risks, and refine his decision-making abilities without the intense scrutiny that comes with playing in the NFL. This freedom to experiment could prove valuable in unlocking his full potential.
Learning from Different Coaching Philosophies:
The UFL brings together coaches from various backgrounds and philosophies. Playing under a different coaching staff could expose Mond to new perspectives and techniques, potentially helping him refine his approach to the game. This exposure to diverse coaching styles could prove beneficial in the long run.
Potential for a Larger Role:
With the XFL and USFL merging, the UFL is expected to be a more competitive league with a wider reach. This could translate to more opportunities for players like Mond to showcase their talents on a bigger stage. A standout performance in the UFL could attract the attention of NFL scouts and potentially lead to another shot at the pros.
However, the UFL also comes with its own set of challenges:
Lower Level of Competition:
Compared to the NFL, the overall level of competition in the UFL is going to be lower. While this could provide Mond with more playing time, it might not fully prepare him for the rigors of the NFL if he aspires to return someday.
Uncertain League Stability:
Though the XFL and USFL previously had successful seasons, the UFL is a newly formed league, and its long-term stability remains to be seen. Unlike the established NFL, there’s a chance that the league might not last, making it a riskier option for players looking for long-term career stability.
Balancing Development with Winning:
While the UFL offers development opportunities, it’s also important to remember that it’s a professional league. Winning will be a priority, and Mond might face pressure to perform immediately, potentially limiting his opportunities to experiment and develop his skills.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to join the UFL rests with Kellen Mond. He will need to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks carefully, considering his career aspirations and priorities.
Final thoughts on the reports that The UFL is interested in former Texas Superstar QB
For fans of Mond and college football enthusiasts alike, the possibility of seeing him back on the field is exciting. The UFL could offer him a valuable platform to continue his development and potentially reignite his professional career. Whether he thrives in the UFL or uses it as a stepping stone back to the NFL, one thing is certain: Kellen Mond’s journey as a quarterback is far from over.
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