D.J. Swearinger makes XFL debut

For the first time since 2020, former South Carolina defensive back D.J. Swearinger appeared in a professional football game.

The NFL veteran defensive back was signed last week by the D.C. Defenders of the XFL. On Sunday, Swearinger made his XFL in the third quarter against the Seattle Sea Dragons. He finished the game with three tackles including two that were solo.

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With the win, the Defenders extend their league best record to (7-1). Swearinger and D.C. will be back in action on Sunday when they host the Arlington Renegades. Game will kickoff at noon on ESPN.

The week after that, Week 10, will mark the final week of the regular season. That game against the San Antonio Brahmas is slated for Saturday, April 22 at 3 p.m. on ABC. From there the two top teams from each conference will play each other for a chance to play in the XFL Championship Game on May 13. Why am I sharing all of this? You’ll still have at least another two opportunities to watch Swearinger this spring if you want.

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A second round draft pick by the Houston Texas in the 2013 NFL Draft, Swearinger’s last stint with a professional team came in 2021 on the Indianapolis Colts’ practice squad. Prior to Sunday, his last appearance in a game was in 2020 with the New Orleans Saints. In 110 career NFL games, the former Gamecock complied 425 career tackles, 4.5 sacks, nine forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries, 43 pass breakups, and 14 interceptions. He also started in 73 of those games.

In addition to Swearinger, former Gamecock Kobe Smith is also playing in the XFL this spring. The defensive end plays for the San Antonio Brahmas.

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