In a surprising move, the Cincinnati Bengals announced the unexpected release of veteran quarterback AJ McCarron.
McCarron has been around the block more than a few times and is one of the most respected backup quarterbacks in the league.
What made this move particularly interesting was that the release reportedly came at McCarron’s own request.
Most players in his situation would be thrilled to have a roster spot in the NFL. However, the reason why he wanted to be cut loose was his desire to return to the XFL (UFL to be exact) this spring.
QB AJ McCarron actually requested to be released from the #Bengals so he could rejoin his former UFL team the St Louis Battlehawks, per @HBalzer721
Gotta respect his love to play 👏 pic.twitter.com/gi5vkR7L38
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) February 15, 2024
The 33-year-old quarterback won the XFL MVP last year when he starred for the St. Louis Battlehawks.
The XFL and USFL have since combined their spring leagues to form the United Football League.
AJ McCarron is coming back to be QB1 of the @XFLBattlehawks after a stint with the Bengals.
Before last season he chose to start in the XFL for less money than being a backup in the NFL to create memories for his boys.
“My 6 year old loves watching tape of me on YouTube.… pic.twitter.com/Xepso4tujb
— Gateway Grinders (@gatewaygrinders) February 14, 2024
McCarron’s journey with the Bengals saw him initially signed to the practice squad last season.
However, circumstances changed when starting quarterback Joe Burrow sustained a season-ending wrist injury in Week 11, leading to McCarron’s promotion to the 53-man roster as Jake Browning’s backup.
aj mccarron 2023-24 season https://t.co/MimtQcHxSc pic.twitter.com/N9AoRTWnpQ
— avery (@JaMarrJungle) February 14, 2024
Although not signed for the 2024 season, McCarron technically remained under contract with the Bengals until the commencement of the new league year on March 13.
By releasing him this week, the Bengals have afforded McCarron the opportunity to pursue his aspirations in the spring league where he is expected to once again be one of the best players.
DEVELOPING: QB AJ McCarron is planning to sign back to the St. Louis Battlehawks, source says.
A.J. was officially released by the Bengals today, and I'm told his return to the @XFLBattlehawks could be as soon as this week. Huge for the city. QB1 back in action. #UFL pic.twitter.com/lvzbLzeWeK
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) February 14, 2024
McCarron was a part of three national championship teams at Alabama. He’s gone on to make a great living as a journeyman backup quarterback in the NFL.
For his career, he’s appeared in 19 games, throwing for 1,192 yards, six touchdowns and three interceptions.
Me refreshing my X at 6 PM CST every weekday to check @UFL_PR to see if AJ McCarron is coming back to the B-Hawks yet pic.twitter.com/S5Xjyht3mm
— Brian Gertler (@BGertSports) February 13, 2024
What do you make of McCarron’s decision?
The timing of the release allows him to hit the ground running as he gears up for spring football … He knows if he’s ever going to have a chance at being a starter in the NFL (or at least a more-stable backup), lighting it up in the UFL can only help.
Besides that is the simple fact that he just loves football and wants to play, no matter the level … You have to respect that.
Looking at the big picture, what are your thoughts on spring football?
Will the newly-formed UFL be a success???
Confirmed: Not surprisingly, the #UFL will feature the return of the "Double Forward Pass", one of the most exciting innovations in spring football, source says.
Which team do you think will utilize this play first this season? #XFL #USFL pic.twitter.com/hXu1z0annX
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) February 10, 2024