We are STWF Sports, and we are excited to announce that we will be covering the United Football League (UFL) this spring. As part of our coverage, we will bring you exclusive interviews with players, behind-the-scenes insights, and in-depth analysis of the league. Stay tuned for more as we dive into this thrilling season of football.
The United Football League (UFL) is a newly established professional spring football league, formed from the merger of the XFL and USFL. The league aims to provide players with opportunities to showcase their talents and earn spots on NFL rosters while delivering high-quality football entertainment to fans. With eight teams competing, the UFL offers a dynamic and competitive platform for athletes looking to make their mark in professional football.
The Arlington Renegades are one of the standout teams in the UFL. After winning the XFL championship in 2023, the Renegades battled injuries throughout 2024 and finished the season with a 3-7 record. With a strong returning core and key additions, the Renegades are looking to build on their success and contend for another championship this season.
Today at practice, we caught up with veteran wide receiver JoVonta Payton. After missing the latter part of last season due to injury, Payton is eager to make an impact this year. Read below for our full conversation with him.
JaVonte Payton Interview
How is it to be back out there with the guys?
“It’s a great feeling, especially with me being injured late in the season. I wasn’t able to finish with the guys, so it’s a great feeling to be back out here and just be on the field with them.”
You’ve experienced playing in different environments. How do you adapt to the varying expectations and style of each level of football?
“College really helped me, especially playing in the SEC. Being able to play those guys—the Alabama, Mississippi State, Florida State—you tend to get used to the pressure and the crowd noise. Being out there and having those years under my belt in the SEC has helped me transition my game and stay calm under big situations when I am out here.”
Tell me about the transition from college to pros. How did your experiences in Tennessee shape your development?
“At Tennessee, my coaches over there did a great job of helping me with fundamentals. I was a graduate senior coming in, and they expected me to know a lot. They did a great job of making sure you do the small things when running your routes and blocking. The coaching staff I had throughout my career has helped me transition to each level.”
You showed flashes of potential last season. What specific area of your game have you focused on improving this season?
“For me, this year is more about being all upright mentally—not just knowing my position but knowing every other guy’s position on the field. That means making sure while I am out there, I am comfortable with my route but also with the play. It’s really just doing the fundamental stuff, making sure that you know everyone’s position on the field and not just yours—it helps the game slow down.”
What were you guys joking about on the field?
“Me, TV (Tyler Vaughn), and Juan (LuJuan Winningham), the guys who have been here for a while. This is my third year with the Renegades; we try to do a good job of making sure the new guys coming in feel comfortable as well. You want to be locked in when you’re practicing, but again, we also want to come out here and have fun. Some guys come to a new team and a new environment and tend to be nervous in new situations. We just try to keep the pressure off of a lot of guys and make them feel comfortable when they go out there and try to run plays.”
What motivates you?
“My three-year-old daughter, and growing up, I am the oldest of 11. Being the oldest of 11 helps me stay on the right path because I have a bunch of younger siblings who look up to me and play my sport and different sports. So, I want to show them the right path and the right thing to do. Just helping them out.”
What is on your playlist?
“I am probably more Atlanta Style—more Gunna, Lil Baby, and Future.”
(LuJuan Winningham jumps in: “I was in the car with him yesterday and he was bumping Taylor Swift.”)
“I do have Taylor Swift on my phone. I listen to all types of genres. I grew up listening to all types.”
What is this opportunity like to just get back on this field and do what you love?
“This league right here (UFL) is a great opportunity, and while talking to some guys that came in this year for the first time, I tell them that this is a great opportunity for players who didn’t get drafted or are trying to get into the league. We have a lot of eyes watching us. Even after the season I had last year, with the injury I had, I was in therapy for a few months, so I wasn’t able to move up to the next level, but last year showed me how interested the NFL is in us. It’s a great opportunity for rookies coming in and even vets trying to get back to the league. I tell every guy who comes in to make sure every single day they give it their all because not only are scouts watching, but our coaches are giving feedback to the league. Make sure you stay focused and give it your all.”
Where to Watch and How to Get Tickets
The Arlington Renegades play their home games at Choctaw Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Fans can purchase tickets through the official UFL website or at ticketing platforms such as Ticketmaster. Stay tuned for more updates and exclusive coverage throughout the season!