ARLINGTON, Texas – Maryland defensive lineman Ami Finau was chosen in the 2023 XFL Rookie Draft by the Arlington Renegades.

Finau, who participated in New York Giants rookie minicamp this spring, played three seasons for the Terps after transferring from Independence Community College in 2020. He was named honorable mention All-Big Ten in both 2021 and 2022.

A Kahuku, Hawaii native, Finau started 28 of the 31 games he played at Maryland, compiling 90 tackles, 12 tackles for loss and three sacks.

In order to be eligible for the draft, players must have been 1) eligible for the 2023 NFL Draft and 2) not under contract by a professional football team. Drafted players will be placed on XFL rosters with players who finished the 2023 season on active and reserve lists. XFL teams will hold exclusive rights with the players they selected.

The Renegades, who are coached by former Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops, were crowned the 2023 XFL Champions after defeating the D.C. Defenders on May 13 in San Antonio.

The XFL will return to action in 2024.