AJ McCarron Rejoins United Football League
AJ McCarron is stepping into a new role within the United Football League (UFL) as he takes over as the head coach of the Birmingham Stallions for the upcoming 2026 season. This appointment marks a significant change for both McCarron and the franchise, following the recent departure of long-time coach Skip Holtz.
Transition from Player to Coach
Until earlier this week, McCarron was actively pursuing the position of lieutenant governor in Alabama. However, following the announcement that Holtz would not return as head coach after four successful seasons, McCarron decided to end his political campaign and accept the coaching position.
Expressing his enthusiasm for this opportunity, McCarron acknowledged the game’s impact on his life and his aim to contribute positively as a coach. “It’s even more special that I get to do that while representing my home state,” he stated. He also recognized Holtz’s legacy, emphasizing respect for his predecessor’s achievements.
Background and Achievements
Before taking over as head coach, McCarron played quarterback for the St. Louis Battlehawks in both the 2023 and 2024 seasons. His professional journey was temporarily stalled after suffering an ACL tear while with the Atlanta Falcons in August 2021. Despite this setback, he returned to football in 2023 with the Cincinnati Bengals.
During his college career, McCarron was an All-American at Alabama, leading the Crimson Tide to three BCS national championships and winning the prestigious Maxwell Award in 2013. His professional tenure includes stints with several NFL teams, including the Bengals, Bills, and Raiders.
Holtz’s Legacy
Skip Holtz has been a pivotal figure in the Stallions’ history, leading the team to three championships: two in the USFL (2022, 2023) and one in the UFL (2024). In the 2025 season, the Stallions finished one victory shy of the UFL Championship, losing to the Michigan Panthers in the conference championship game.
- Stallions’ Record Under Holtz:
- Regular Season: 33-7
- Playoff Performance: 6-1
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
The UFL is evolving with the rebranding of teams during the offseason. Notably, three franchises have been removed from the league, replaced by new teams, including the Columbus Aviators, Louisville Kings, and Orlando Storm. The UFL’s 10-week regular season is set to begin on March 27, 2026.
As McCarron prepares to lead the Birmingham Stallions, the organization looks forward to building on its championship legacy while navigating a new era under his guidance.
