Eric Boggs
The Columbus Aviators continued shaping their roster late Thursday by signing offensive guard Wisdom Quarshie, a former standout at Temple University, as the franchise works to solidify its interior offensive line before the start of the 2026 UFL season. The addition comes shortly after the team released lineman Noah Atagi, signaling a quick adjustment along the front as coaches evaluate personnel fits for their inaugural campaign.
Quarshie brings extensive collegiate experience, appearing in 46 games over six seasons and serving as a dependable starting right guard for three years. Originally recruited as a defensive tackle, he transitioned early in his career to the offensive line and developed into a versatile blocker capable of handling multiple schemes. He is particularly known for his mobility as a pulling guard, a trait that fits well in modern offensive systems emphasizing movement and space blocking. Though he has yet to appear in a regular-season game at the professional level, his size, experience, and technical development drew interest from several teams at the next level.
His signing helps offset the departure of Atagi, who had been selected by Columbus in the league’s 2026 draft after previously playing for the Houston Roughnecks, where he appeared in nine games with eight starts during the 2025 season. Before that stint, Atagi attended rookie minicamp with the Chicago Bears following a decorated college career at Weber State University that included two All-American honors and four First Team All-Big Sky Conference selections. His release reflected the routine roster reshuffling that occurs as spring leagues finalize depth charts under roster limits, which differ from the developmental systems used by organizations such as the NFL.
Quarshie now steps into an opportunity to compete for a role on the interior line as Columbus continues evaluating talent before final roster decisions. Several players who reported to the facility ahead of the official reporting date have already begun early preparation work, signaling the urgency and focus surrounding the team’s first training camp. Within that environment, the new guard’s experience, adaptability, and reputation as a physical run blocker could make him a timely addition as the Aviators finalize their foundation in the trenches.
