In an offseason of free agency, coaching changes, and relocation one bit of news fans of the UFL did not expect is former NFL/Battlehawks Quarterback A.J. McCarron announcing his candidacy for political office. McCarron announced via his social media pages that he is running for Lt. Governor of the state of Alabama as the Republican candidate.
McCarron is a lifelong Alabama native growing up in Mobile and attending St. Paul’s Episcopal High School, winning a state championship. McCarron committed to the Crimson Tide, bringing the University Two National Championships (2011 & 2012), while also winning a National Championship as a backup in 2009. McCarron would enjoy a 9-year NFL career which included two seasons with the Battlehawks before his release from St. Louis prior to the 2025. Despite UFL interest McCarron remained unsigned and focused on his work in the media, and his real estate firm McCarron Real Estate.
McCarron looks to join former Auburn Head Football Coach Tommy Tuberville who also entered politics after his retirement from football. Also, worth-noting esteemed college football analyst Paul Finebaum is also considering a run at politics, mentioning him thinking about running for Senate in Alabama as well.
McCarron joins a crowded field in the Republican race for lieutenant governor, which includes current Secretary of State Wes Allen, current Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate, Patrick Bishop, George Childress, Dean Odle and Nicole Wadsworth. A Democratic candidate has yet to announce. Alabama’s primaries are May 19, 2026.
