Former NFL and University of Alabama quarterback A. J. McCarron has terminated his campaign for lieutenant governor of Alabama to pursue a coaching role with the United Football League’s Birmingham Stallions.
UFL President and CEO Russ Brandon stated, “A. J. McCarron is a part of the fabric of winning football that is woven throughout the state of Alabama.” He added, “It is only appropriate that a winner like A. J. takes over the reins of the three-time champion Birmingham Stallions as they embark upon a new era.”
McCarron, who led the Crimson Tide to back-to-back national championships under head coach Nick Saban and played for the Cincinnati Bengals in the NFL, announced his candidacy for the Republican primary in October. He emphasized his status as a first-time candidate, stating in his campaign conclusion that “it is time for political newcomers and conservative outsider candidates” to engage. Records indicate McCarron registered to vote in Alabama days before launching his bid.
“My football position will require the same 100% focus, commitment, and attention that I was prepared to give to the office of lieutenant governor,” McCarron said, explaining his decision to end the campaign. A Mobile native, McCarron expressed excitement about coaching while representing his home state: “This game has given me so much as a player, and now I am ready to give back as a coach.”
The announcement follows former coach Skip Holtz’s recent departure after leading the Stallions to three championships in the USFL and UFL. McCarron acknowledged Holtz’s legacy, stating, “I have a tremendous amount of respect for Coach Holtz, what he has done for the league and for the Stallions.” He added that he is “ready to put in the work that will continue producing championship wins for the city of Birmingham.”