**AJ McCarron Named Head Coach of Birmingham Stallions in UFL Shake-Up**
Key Takeaways:
- A.J. McCarron has been named head coach of the UFL’s Birmingham Stallions.
- He replaces Skip Holtz, who resigned earlier this week after leading the team to titles.
- McCarron withdrew from an Alabama political race to accept the coaching role.
Birmingham, AL — Former Alabama Crimson Tide and NFL quarterback A.J. McCarron is trending after being named the head coach of the United Football League’s (UFL) Birmingham Stallions. The announcement follows the unexpected resignation of longtime coach Skip Holtz, who stepped down earlier this week. McCarron now steps into a leadership role with a team located in his home state, less than a year after finishing his playing stint with the St. Louis Battlehawks.
Veteran Quarterback Steps onto the Sideline
McCarron, well-regarded for his college career at the University of Alabama where he won three national championships, now shifts from the field to the sidelines. After being drafted in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL Draft, McCarron played eight seasons in the NFL, making 19 regular-season appearances across teams like the Bengals, Bills, Raiders, Texans, and Falcons. Most recently, he played in the UFL for the St. Louis Battlehawks earlier in 2024. His transition to coaching was formalized just days after announcing he would no longer pursue the position of Lieutenant Governor of Alabama.
Why Now? Change in Leadership Opens New Doors
The coaching change comes as Skip Holtz steps away from the Stallions after a highly successful run that included back-to-back championships. The decision created a leadership vacuum just before the next UFL campaign. McCarron’s Alabama roots and recent stint in the UFL made him a logical candidate for a franchise looking to maintain its competitive dominance while connecting with its local fan base. In his official statement, McCarron expressed enthusiasm, stating he’s “ready to give back as a coach” and wants to continue the Stallions’ “championship wins for the city of Birmingham.”
What This Means for the UFL and Birmingham
The appointment of a recognizable name like McCarron could heighten visibility for the UFL, a league still in its growth phase. The Birmingham Stallions are already considered one of its flagship teams because of their record, and having a former local hero and NFL veteran at the helm could boost both morale and ticket sales. For McCarron, this is a chance to prove his coaching capabilities at a professional level, possibly setting the stage for future coaching opportunities at even higher levels of football.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is AJ McCarron trending?
A: He has been named the new head coach of the Birmingham Stallions in the UFL, replacing Skip Holtz.
Q: What happens next?
A: McCarron will begin coaching preparations ahead of the UFL’s next season, with expectations high for another championship run.
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