Battlehawks add QB Manny Wilkins

ST. LOUIS — The St. Louis Battlehawks has its 51st player on the roster, per a news release from the XFL organization.

According to the release Monday, quarterback Manny Wilkins was added by the Battlehawks to build up the QB corps that currently has A.J. McCarron as the starter and Nick Tiano.

Wilkins is the fifth all-time leading passer at Arizona State University. During his tenure with the Sun Devils, he threw for over 8,600 yards and rushed for over 1,000 for a total of 62 touchdowns.

Initially signed as a rookie free agent in 2019, he spent the entire season on the practice squad for the Green Bay Packers. Since then, he’s been inactive.

“We are excited to add Manny as a complement to our quarterback corps,” said Battlehawks coach and general manager Anthony Becht. “He’s been on our radar going back to the summer showcase in Arizona. We also had him in for our private workout in October. Manny brings in a lot of experience and has the ability to impact a game with both his arm and on the ground.”

The 27-year-old will be wearing the #5 jersey for St. Louis.

The Battlehawks kicks off its 2023 campaign Sunday, Feb. 19 in San Antonio to take on the Brahmas. The television broadcast will be at 6 p.m. Central on ABC.

The home opener will be in Week 4 hosting the Arlington Renegades at The Dome at America’s Center. Tickets for the home opener start at $25 per game with season ticket packages still available.