With one week remaining in the 2026 UFL season, the Birmingham Stallions were dealt their first major transaction of the offseason. Per James Larsen of PFN, Stallions Center Noah Johnson is retiring after four seasons in spring football. The veteran offensive lineman had appeared in seven games for Birmingham this season, starting five.
After attempting to latch on in the CFL in 2022, Johnson signed with the Michigan Panthers of the USFL for the 2023 season immediately providing an upgrade to their offensive line. Johnson would appear and start in all 30 regular season games for the Panthers including four postseason matchups as well, leading the way for multiple Panthers to earn NFL contracts such as Stevie Scott, E.J. Perry, and Bryce Perkins.
Upon the UFL's decision to relocate the Michigan Panthers in 2026, Johnson joined the Birmingham Stallions providing a stabilizing presence on the Stallions offensive line when available. Despite Johnson's efforts the team finished 4-6, suffering their worst record in franchise history.
Johnson retires with 41 appearances over four seasons in spring football. This offseason he is the 2nd player to announce his intention of moving on, with Renegades Linebacker Andrew Dowell joining the Washington Commanders scouting department. Johnson is also the first Stallion player to announce his intention to retire signifying the first major transaction this offseason for Birmingham.