Eric Boggs
The Columbus Aviators have released offensive lineman Noah Atagi, according to the official transactions page for the UFL, marking an early roster move as teams continue shaping their squads for the 2026 campaign. Atagi, a 6-foot-6, 325-pound blocker from South Ogden, was selected by Columbus in the league’s 2026 draft but will now look for his next opportunity following the decision.
Before joining the Aviators organization, Atagi gained UFL experience with the Houston Roughnecks, appearing in nine games during the 2025 season and starting eight of them. During that stretch, Houston averaged 18.3 points and 274.4 total yards per game while allowing 15 sacks and finishing with a 5–5 record. He initially signed with Houston in October 2024 after participating in rookie minicamp with the Chicago Bears earlier that year, then re-signed with the Roughnecks in July 2025 before league structural changes led to a new player draft pool.
Atagi’s football résumé is anchored by an accomplished collegiate career at Weber State University, where he spent six seasons from 2018 through 2023 and appeared in 56 games at left tackle. His honors included two All-American selections and four First Team All-Big Sky Conference nods, placing him among a select group of players in school history to earn four first-team conference honors. Though primarily known for his line play, he also recorded a reception, a touchdown, and a tackle during his college tenure.
Roster decisions like this are common as UFL clubs navigate league roster regulations. Training camp rosters can reach up to 64 players before being trimmed to a 50-man regular-season limit, with only 42 eligible to dress on game days. Unlike the NFL, the UFL does not maintain a traditional practice squad system, instead relying on reserve lists to manage development and player movement throughout the season. The structure is designed to balance competitive depth with opportunities for athletes seeking advancement to higher levels of professional football.
Atagi’s release represents part of the normal evaluation process as Columbus continues refining its inaugural roster, while the lineman’s experience and decorated college background should keep him on the radar for teams seeking proven size and starting experience in the trenches.
