He’s back. The New York Jets have officially re-signed DC Defenders OL Liam Fornadel, adding him to their practice squad on Monday.
We’ve signed WR Tyler Johnson to the active roster and signed OL Liam Fornadel to the practice squad.
— New York Jets (@nyjets) September 8, 2025
Liam made his way back to the DC Defenders early this year. He signed after week one, and immediately was inserted back into a heavy rotational role. Fornadel played in 11 games this season with the Defenders, starting in eight of those at right guard.
Fornadel finished the year with a strong 76.9 Offensive Grade, including an outstanding 85.6 Pass Blocking Grade (via PFF). He was a key piece in DC being the UFL’s #1 offense in 2025 – bolstering a ground and air attack that was lethal across the board.
Liam has consistently played at a high level throughout his spring career. He earned All-XFL honors in 2023 as Abram Smith set rushing records that season. Fornadel continued that streak in 2024 with DC, which earned him an opportunity in the NFL with the New England Patriots.
This past preseason in New York, Fornadel was outstanding with the Jets. He took all of his snaps at center, showcasing his versatility – as he’s primarily played at guard in the UFL with DC.
Former @XFLDefenders OG Liam Fornadel had a TREMENDOUS preseason with the #Jets:
– 123 snaps at center
– 0 pressures or sacks allowed
– 84.7 Offensive Grade (W3)
– 81.4 Pass Blocking Grade via @PFF
See also
Fornadel has earned himself at least a PS spot, in my opinion. #UFLtoNFL https://t.co/ewWUNFXfZ8
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) August 23, 2025
Liam allowed zero pressures the entire preseason, playing 123 snaps. He had an 81.4 Pass Blocking Grade across three games, via PFF. It was surprising to see the Jets cut Liam originally, deciding not to sign him to their practice squad at the end of August.
Now, with the Jets facing some injuries up front, they’ve decided to bring Fornadel back. If he remains on their practice squad, it wouldn’t be at all surprising to see Liam brought up at some point throughout the NFL season.
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What are your thoughts on Liam Fornadel signing with the New York Jets? Which Defenders player should be next? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
