TAMPA, FL. - There is nothing like getting a second chance.

That’s exactly what the XFL is offering players: Another opportunity to play the game they love at a high level. Former Gator CeCe Jefferson and Tampa-Plant alum Bobby Richardson are hoping to make their mark with the Tampa Bay Vipers.

“It’s given guys like me, who one year departed from college, and other guys, who want to get back in the game, another opportunity to keep pursuing their career,” said Jefferson.

“When we get to Houston we had our training camp there,” said Richardson. “It was three and a half weeks and all eight teams were there. And just to see all eight teams that was when it hit me that this was something new, something big.”

The two defensive linemen have a wealth of experience. Jefferson remembers making big time plays at Florida.

While Richardson will always have a popular NFL moment as the lineman who intercepted Blake Bortles.

“Being in the NFL you learn so much from the vets that you can bring to anything in life,” said Richardson.

“I went from having structure in my life for four years straight to then taking a break, a pretty big break, and now I am back out here,” said Jefferson.

Their experiences in and out of the game have shaped them for this moment in Tampa Bay. Both will be contributors for the Vipers defense under coordinator Jerry Glanville.

“This is football. This is big time football. We’ve got players, we’ve got attitude,” said Glanville.

“He’s definitely one of those guys where it is going to be business, but it’s also going to be fun as well and he does a good job of mixing up both of those,” said Jefferson.

“Jerry is the man, bro. He has so many stories,” said Richardson. “He’s got too many jokes. He is the kind of guy you want to be behind.”

These two have a passion and excitement not only to learn under great coaches, but also to play in front of their family and friends at Raymond James Stadium.

“I’m finally back home and everybody gets to come see me play,” said Richardson, who has only played one game at Ray Jay as a visitor with the Saints and chose to play college ball at Indiana.

“MacClenny, Florida is not that far away, Gainesville is not that far away,” said Jefferson. “I’m definitely familiar with this area and hopefully I can bring in a lot of support for me and for the team.”

Playing for their loved ones and for the love of the game. CeCe Jefferson and Bobby Richardson are eager to take that next step in their football journey this Sunday.