April 29, 2026
By Ryan Baker
With just 10 teams kicking off the 2026 season on opening weekend, Week 2 sees nine more teams launch their campaigns, bringing some of the league's biggest names onto the field for their electrifying season debuts. Here are seven players primed to make waves this weekend.
Alex Atkins, New York Empire
Alex Atkins makes his highly anticipated debut in his New York Empire jersey this weekend against the Toronto Rush. When Atkins is healthy, he brings ferocious energy and unmatched two-way versatility, competing in the air, defending top threats, throwing elite passes, and igniting every play. In his 34 games, he's the only player with 30 or more career games to average more than 2.1 goals, 2.9 assists, 1 block, and 470 total yards per game. Atkins' fierce personality can spark trouble, but if his chemistry with the Empire squad clicks, opponents are in for a rough season.
Noah Coolman, Minnesota Wind Chill
Noah Coolman, another First Team All-UFA star, will debut for the Minnesota Wind Chill against the Chicago Union. After a historic season with Colorado Apex—posting 24 assists, 22 goals, and 24 blocks, the only player since 2020 to tally at least 20 in each—Coolman's versatility unlocks the Wind Chill playbook. He will be tough to counter, and could ignite an offense that’s struggled to start strong. Expect Coolman to lead the charge as the Wind Chill look to seize momentum.
Seth Faris, Colorado Apex
With key departures and stars out for Colorado Apex, Seth Faris steps up as the offensive anchor for this weekend’s crucial games against Seattle Cascades and Oregon Steel. The opener of this doubleheader is pivotal, setting the tone for a playoff chase. Last year, Faris tripled his production, racking up 16 assists and 34 goals, cementing himself as Colorado’s premier downfield threat. His relentless energy will be vital for Apex throughout this demanding weekend.
Leo Gordon, Oakland Spiders (Pictured)
The Spiders unleashed their offense in Week 1 with 34 goals against Oregon, but Leo Gordon, a former First Team All-Rookie, played a quieter role. Expect fireworks in Week 2 against Salt Lake Shred—likely a West Divisional Championship preview. Gordon tallied 9 assists in two games versus Salt Lake last year, including 6 in the opener. For Oakland to land their first franchise win against their rival, Gordon needs to deliver big. Watch for boosts in his backfield quickness and see what else he's added in the offseason.
Mark Henke, Austin Sol
After a Week 1 slugfest, Austin Sol faces the Houston Havoc in what promises to be a highlight reel weekend. Mark Henke, debuting for 2026, steps up as the offensive centerpiece with Evan Swiatek and Duncan Fitzgerald sidelined. After a breakout 2025 and four dominant performances against Houston—including four assists and eight goals last year—Henke becomes the top downfield target, averaging 11.6 yards per catch (14.14 versus Havoc over two years), seventh in the league among players with 200 catches.
Jordan Kerr, Salt Lake Shred
Opposite the Spiders, Jordan Kerr spearheads Salt Lake Shred in a doubleheader weekend, starting with Oregon Steel and then the high-stakes clash against Oakland. Kerr’s offensive command is unrivaled; he'll duel against Oakland's dynamic crew. Over eight games versus the Spiders, Kerr averages 4.5 assists, 2 goals, and 450-plus yards, highlighted by six assists in last year's playoffs. Every mistake could tip the game, and Kerr's knack for smart plays adds to the drama.
Garrett Martin, Seattle Cascades
The Cascades-Apex matchup sets up a season-defining showdown, and Garrett Martin is primed to be Seattle's driving force. After three years averaging 3.23 assists and 2.79 goals, Martin begins 2026 fresh off 31 assists and 37 goals—one of just five to clear 30 assists and 35 goals in 2025. He thrives in cutter space, and his last game against Apex saw five assists. With Colorado’s lineup changes, expect Martin to exploit mismatches and light up the scoreboard.
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