Former CFL yardage leader Tyreik McAllister released by UFL’s Columbus Aviators

Photo courtesy: Bob Butrym/RFB Sport Photography

Former CFL returner Tyreik McAllister has been released by the Columbus Aviators of the United Football League amidst final roster cuts, 3DownNation has confirmed.

McAllister had a breakout season with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 2023, leading the league in kickoff return average and all-purpose yards. He recorded 13 carries for 52 yards, 27 receptions for 364 yards and two touchdowns, 41 kickoff returns for an average of 1,037 yards, 56 punt returns for an average of 602 yards, and seven missed field goal returns for 408 yards and one score.

The 27-year-old landed a contract with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2024, rushing twice for 11 yards, returning two punts for 24 yards, returning two kickoffs for 49 yards, and making one tackle over three regular-season games. He finished the year on the team’s practice roster and subsequently signed a futures contract for 2025, though he was released in May.

The native of Latta, S.C., reportedly worked out for at least two NFL teams following his release from the Raiders, though he didn’t sign a contract. He opted to sign in the UFL rather than immediately return to the CFL.

Other notable former CFL players released on UFL cutdown day include Aviators defensive lineman Celestin Haba, Aviators offensive lineman Juwann Bushell-Beatty, DC Defenders defensive back Leon O’Neal Jr., Birmingham Stallions receiver Cam Echols-Luper, and St. Louis Battlehawks offensive lineman Ilm Manning.

The 2026 UFL season will begin on Friday, March 27, when the Stallions visit the Louisville Kings at 8:00 p.m. EDT.