UFL football

2026 Sportsman of the Year Nominees

ARLINGTON, TEXAS (June 8, 2026) – The United Football League today announced the eight team nominees for the 2026 UFL Sportsman of the Year Award.

The UFL Sportsman of the Year Award recognizes the player who best exemplifies character, leadership, and service beyond the field of play. The honoree demonstrates a deep commitment to local community, serves as a positive role model, and personifies the integrity, professionalism, and purpose that define the highest standard of the UFL. Through meaningful community engagement, leadership among teammates, and a commitment to representing the league with professionalism and purpose, the UFL Sportsman of the Year embodies what it means to be a role model both in sport and in life.

Alex Cook (BHM)

Ryan Nelson (CLB)

Ellis Merriweather (DAL)

Cornell Powell (DC)

Malik Fisher (HOU)

Mac Brown (LOU)

Alex Matheson (ORL)

Spencer Rolland (STL)

The UFL Sportsman of the Year Award was first introduced in 2025 with DE Travis Feeney of the St. Louis Battlehawks winning the inaugural award.

The winner of the 2026 UFL Sportsman of the Year Award will be announced on Friday, June 12, as part of the UFL Awards presented by Dynasty Financial Partners celebration leading into the United Bowl, which will be played on Saturday, June 13, at 3 p.m. ET on ABC at Audi Field in Washington, D.C.