5 Ohio State Greats To Join Cardale Jones With Columbus UFL Team, Including AJ Hawk

UFL football is coming to Ohio State country in 2026. Earlier this week, the spring football league revealed that Columbus would be one of the cities getting a UFL team starting next year. The Columbus Aviators will be co-owned by Body Armor founder Mike Repole, and he already made a major connection between the new team and Ohio State this week.

On Thursday, the team announced that Buckeyes great Cardale Jones will join the Aviators in an ambassador role. Linking the franchise to OSU football is a smart business move, and the Aviators should bring more Buckeyes into the fold. With that in mind, here are five Ohio State greats we want to see join Jones with the Aviators.

Jim Tressel

After Woody Hayes, Jim Tressel is seen as the greatest coach in OSU history. Having him be a part of the new Columbus franchise would be a smart move for the team. The 72-year-old is currently busy as the Lieutenant Governor of Ohio, but if he were to accept a role as a side job as an advisor for the team, that would be a major coup, business-wise and on the field for the Aviators.

Tyvis Powell

Former Ohio State star Tyvis Powell has kept himself very busy in his post-football life with a fast-growing media career. Including as a co-host on the popular 97.1 The Fan morning show, “T-Bone and Tyvis.” Having him spread awareness on his media platforms would be a fantastic way to help the Aviators grow their brand in Columbus.

Furthermore, he could chip in as an advisor or coach on defense if he is interested. At the least, it feels like a lock for him to join Jones as an ambassador since they have been close friends dating back to their days together at OSU.

Cris Carter

Cris Carter is an OSU and NFL legend. Having former players of his stature involved in the team is a must for the Aviators. If the Hall of Famer has any interest in being a head coach in a pro league, the franchise should get him on the horn and see what it would take to make it happen. He can expertly handle the media side of things while bringing serious notoriety to the franchise.

Chris Spielman

Chris Spielman is another Ohio State legend and NFL great who should be on the wishlist of Aviators ownership. The Detroit Lions’ special assistant to the CEO now has front office experience and would be a fun choice to serve as a top executive for the Aviators if they are willing to let him do double duty and retain his role with the Lions.

AJ Hawk

A dream addition for the Columbus Aviators would be to bring in Pat McAfee Show co-host AJ Hawk. He was one of the best defensive players in school history and had a notable career in the NFL. But more than anything, having access to the massive reach of the McAfee Show would be a game-changer for the team. Having him be an ambassador or advisor to the front office should be at the top of Columbus’s list to build its infrastructure.

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