Former UTSA standout Corey Mayfield Jr. is set to make his professional debut with the San Antonio Brahmas as they kick off their season against the DC Defenders in the upstart UFL. Mayfield Jr., who became a key defensive figure for the Roadrunners, is now looking to translate that success into a professional career after being cut from the Baltimore Ravens roster, according to FOX San Antonio. The cornerback's journey back to San Antonio is marked by a mix of nostalgia and new challenges as he steps back onto the familiar turf at the Alamodome with a Brahma jersey and higher aspirations.
"I haven't hit anybody since August. So, it's been a while, so I got a lot cooked up in me right but I'm confident, man," Mayfield Jr. said in an interview obtained by FOX San Antonio. His time at UTSA saw Mayfield transform from an out-of-shape freshman to a first-team all-conference star. In his senior year, he significantly contributed to leading the Roadrunners to back-to-back conference titles—an achievement the San Antonio native is eager to replicate at a professional level.
However, Mayfield's journey has not been without its trials. After a tough freshman start against UAB in 2018, where he was noticeably out of shape and unprepared for the demands of college football, Mayfield experienced a crushing defeat. The UTSA defense suffered mightily at the hands of the Blazers, as detailed by the Express News. Now, years later, he's leaned out, honed his skills, and faced the wake-up call he needed to reach the next level.
The mental and physical transformation of Mayfield is evident. "I was a little crazier off the field. I didn't take football as serious as I'm taking it now," Mayfield Jr. told the Express News. Now, in a professional setting and under the tutelage of famed head coach Wade Phillips, Mayfield is looking to make an immediate impact for the Brahmas. His past experiences at the Alamodome—most notably a 48-27 win over the North Texas Mean Green—serve to fuel his ambition as he pivots to capture a different trophy with his new team.
Mayfield's role during his time at UTSA shifted from a pressured freshman to a leader amongst his peers. Given Mayfield's tenure and performance at UTSA, including leading the team with two interceptions, it's clear the cornerback possesses both the confidence and capability to be a steadying force in the Brahmas' defense. Ex-teammate Antonio Parks lauded Mayfield's influence, recounting to the Express News how the seasoned player's experience radiates confidence throughout the team.
It's a new chapter and a fresh start for Corey Mayfield Jr., filled with familiar hopes and revitalized dreams. As the Brahmas and Mayfield prepare to face the DC Defenders, fans and players alike will watch with bated breath to see if this homecoming heralds a triumphant entry into the professional stage for the former Roadrunner defensive back.
