Jalen Wydermyer, a former tight end for Texas A&M, joins the UFL Michigan Panthers.

Jalen Wydermyer: A Former Texas A&M Tight End Joins the UFL Michigan Panthers

The journey of a college athlete transitioning to the professional ranks is never easy, but for many players, it represents the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and dreams of competing at the highest level. One such player making a transition from the college game to professional football is Jalen Wydermyer, a former standout tight end for Texas A&M. Wydermyer has now taken the next step in his football career by joining the United Football League (UFL), specifically with the Michigan Panthers. His decision to sign with the Panthers marks an exciting new chapter in his career and adds a layer of intrigue to an already competitive team in the UFL.

Wydermyer’s college career was one marked by incredible success, but like many players, he faced the uncertainties and challenges of making the leap to the professional level. After spending time in the NFL Draft process and not landing a spot on an NFL roster, Wydermyer is embracing the opportunity to showcase his skills with the Michigan Panthers and prove that his talent deserves to be on display at the professional level. This move speaks not only to his resilience but also to the growing importance of alternative football leagues like the UFL, which provide players with opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.

In this article, we will take a deep dive into Jalen Wydermyer’s journey, from his standout days at Texas A&M, to his brief experience in the NFL Draft process, and finally, to his new professional home with the Michigan Panthers in the UFL. We will also examine what this move means for Wydermyer, the UFL, and the broader landscape of football leagues that continue to evolve in the United States.

A Standout Career at Texas A&M

Jalen Wydermyer’s football journey began in Denton, Texas, where he established himself as one of the most promising tight ends in the state. A standout at Denton Guyer High School, Wydermyer caught the attention of college scouts thanks to his impressive combination of size, athleticism, and route-running ability. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing in at 255 pounds, Wydermyer had the ideal frame for a tight end. His ability to both block effectively and create mismatches in the passing game made him a highly sought-after recruit. Ultimately, he chose to play for Texas A&M, where he would go on to leave a lasting legacy.

Wydermyer arrived at Texas A&M University in 2019, quickly making a name for himself in head coach Jimbo Fisher’s offense. In his freshman season, he showcased his potential by hauling in 32 receptions for 447 yards and 6 touchdowns, helping his team make a bowl game. His combination of hands, size, and ability to run routes made him an instant weapon for the Aggies’ offense.

The following years saw Wydermyer become one of the premier tight ends in college football. He consistently put up strong numbers and garnered attention from NFL scouts, earning a spot on the All-SEC teams in both 2020 and 2021. His sophomore season was particularly impressive, as he caught 46 passes for 506 yards and 4 touchdowns. These numbers solidified his status as one of the top prospects at his position in the nation. He was also known for his physical blocking skills, which allowed him to serve as a dual-threat for the Aggies both in the run game and as a reliable target in the passing attack.

By the time his junior season came around in 2021, Wydermyer had established himself as a first-round talent in the eyes of many draft analysts. His reliable hands and the ability to stretch the field as a big target in the passing game made him one of the most intriguing tight ends available. However, his time at Texas A&M ended after three seasons when Wydermyer made the decision to declare for the 2022 NFL Draft.

The 2022 NFL Draft Process

With his decision to declare for the NFL Draft, Jalen Wydermyer’s hopes of following in the footsteps of successful college tight ends like Kyle Pitts, T.J. Hockenson, and Noah Fant were very much alive. His physical attributes, coupled with his impressive college tape, earned him a lot of attention from NFL teams looking to add another versatile tight end to their rosters. However, the NFL Draft process, while exciting, is also incredibly competitive, and it can often be unforgiving for players, even those with standout college careers.

As the 2022 NFL Draft approached, Wydermyer was seen as a possible second- or third-round pick. However, several factors—ranging from injury concerns to the influx of talent at his position—led to his draft stock fluctuating. Despite having been a standout in college, Wydermyer struggled to solidify his position as a top prospect, especially as other tight ends such as Trey McBride and Jalen Weidemeier gained traction throughout the evaluation process.

On draft day, Wydermyer’s name was not called during the traditional rounds of the NFL Draft. This was a disappointing result for Wydermyer, who had high hopes of playing in the league. However, he did not allow this setback to define him. Instead, he worked to improve his game, focused on maintaining his physical condition, and kept his sights on continuing his career at the professional level.

Transitioning to the UFL with the Michigan Panthers

After going undrafted in 2022, Wydermyer found himself looking for opportunities in the professional ranks. While the NFL remained the ultimate goal, Wydermyer began to explore other leagues that could provide a platform for him to develop his skills and eventually return to the NFL or secure a spot on a professional roster. One such league that offered him an opportunity was the United Football League (UFL), a professional football league that aims to provide competitive play and give athletes a chance to continue their careers.

In the UFL, Wydermyer saw an opportunity to compete, refine his craft, and possibly make a name for himself. The Michigan Panthers, one of the most promising teams in the league, offered Wydermyer a contract, and he made the decision to join them for the 2025 season. The Panthers, based in Detroit, have quickly established themselves as a team to watch, attracting several talented players eager to make an impact on the professional scene.

Joining the Panthers provides Wydermyer with a chance to revive his career in a professional football environment. The UFL has positioned itself as a competitive alternative to the NFL, with many former college stars like Wydermyer finding a home in the league. The league has also garnered attention from football fans as a developmental platform for players who may not have initially made an NFL roster but still possess the talent to compete at a high level.

For Wydermyer, the opportunity with the Panthers offers him a chance to develop his skills, prove his worth, and position himself for a future with an NFL team. The tight end position in the NFL is one of the most coveted spots on the field, and with his impressive college pedigree and strong physical attributes, Wydermyer is more than capable of making an impact in the UFL and beyond.

What Jalen Wydermyer Brings to the Michigan Panthers

As a former top-tier college player, Jalen Wydermyer brings a wealth of experience to the Michigan Panthers. His ability to create mismatches in the passing game, along with his formidable blocking skills, makes him an intriguing prospect for the Panthers. In particular, Wydermyer’s versatility as a dual-threat tight end could be a key asset for the Panthers’ offensive scheme.

At Texas A&M, Wydermyer was known for his impressive catching ability, often making acrobatic grabs and showcasing his athleticism with big plays. As a tight end, his size allows him to operate both in the middle of the field and in the red zone, where he has the potential to become a reliable target for quarterbacks. Additionally, his blocking skills will be crucial for the Panthers’ running game, allowing them to build an effective, balanced offense.

With the Panthers, Wydermyer will have the chance to refine these skills further, learn the nuances of professional play, and contribute to a team that is building towards success. The UFL provides an excellent opportunity for players like Wydermyer to take their careers into their own hands, providing them with a platform to showcase their talent in front of NFL scouts and continue pursuing their ultimate goal of making it to the league.

The Future of the UFL and Its Impact on Football Development

The United Football League is a relatively new development in the landscape of professional football, but it has quickly gained traction as a viable option for players who might otherwise struggle to get noticed. By offering competitive play, exposure, and coaching, the UFL has become a stepping stone for many players like Jalen Wydermyer to continue their careers and develop their craft.

In the future, leagues like the UFL may play an increasingly important role in football development, not only offering opportunities for players like Wydermyer but also creating additional avenues for talent to emerge. These leagues allow for more competitive football across the board, and they help bridge the gap between college football and the NFL, giving players who fall through the cracks a chance to pursue their dreams.