**AJ McCarron Named Head Coach of Birmingham Stallions for 2026 Season**
**Meta Description:** AJ McCarron transitions from player to head coach of the Birmingham Stallions, taking over for Skip Holtz ahead of the 2026 UFL season.
**URL Slug:** aj-mccarron-birmingham-stallions-coach-2026
AJ McCarron, a former standout quarterback for Alabama, has made a significant career shift by being appointed the head coach of the Birmingham Stallions for the upcoming 2026 season. This announcement comes after McCarron’s varied journey in professional football, which included a successful college career and several years in the NFL.
After being drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL Draft, McCarron spent time in backup roles across various NFL teams. He later joined the St. Louis Battlehawks, a team now part of the United Football League (UFL). In 2023, he briefly returned to the Bengals before re-signing with the Battlehawks in 2024. However, McCarron is now ready to embrace a new challenge as he transitions from player to coach.
McCarron takes over the head coaching position from Skip Holtz, who announced his decision to step down after four successful seasons. Holtz led the Stallions to a remarkable 33-7 record and playoff appearances in each of his four years, culminating in a UFL championship in 2024. In his farewell statement, Holtz expressed his excitement for future endeavors, stating, “I am not retiring. This is simply the right moment to pause, reflect and look ahead.”
The 2026 UFL season is set to kick off on March 27, and McCarron’s leadership will be pivotal as the Stallions aim to build on their previous successes. With his extensive experience and competitive spirit, McCarron is poised to make a significant impact in his new role.
**FAQ**
**What is AJ McCarron’s coaching experience?**
AJ McCarron is transitioning from a player to a head coach role with the Birmingham Stallions, marking his first coaching position after a notable playing career in college and the NFL.