Bloomfield HS alum Kristjan Sokoli drafted by USFL’s Houston Gamblers

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — Kristjan Sokoli is adding a chapter to his professional football career.

The 2010 Bloomfield High School graduate was recently selected in the second round of the supplemental draft of the United States Football League, which has been resurrected after more than 30 years.

Sokoli, a 6-foot-5, 300-pound offensive lineman, spent time in the NFL after playing at the University of Buffalo following his BHS career. He was drafted in the sixth round by the Seattle Seahawks in 2015. He also spent time with the Indianapolis Colts, New Orleans Saints and New York Giants. 

At the University of Buffalo, Sokoli played on the defensive line with Khalil Mack, who was a first-round NFL draft pick and currently plays for the Los Angeles Chargers. 

The USFL, which first operated for three seasons, from 1983 to 1985, will begin its season on April 16.

Sokoli was born in Albania. His father, Gjon, fled worn-torn Albania and came to the United States when Sokoli was 5 years old. His mother, Gjyste, also fled the country to join her husband. Kristjan and his younger brother, Mark, did not join their parents until another two years had passed. 

In addition to football, Sokoli lettered in basketball and track and field, in which he was standout discus and shot put thrower on the state level.

Photo by Joe Ragozzino

  Bloomfield High School football