UFL 2026: New Coaches Bring Local Pride to the League

The United Football League (UFL) is set to welcome a new cohort of head coaches for the 2026 season, featuring notable figures from the world of football. Among them is Ted Ginn Jr., who will lead the Columbus Aviators. Ginn, a former Ohio State star and first-round NFL draft pick, expressed excitement about returning to his roots in Columbus, where he aims to build a strong team identity. Other first-time head coaches include AJ McCarron, who takes the helm of the Birmingham Stallions, and Chris Redman, who will coach the Louisville Kings. Both McCarron and Redman have deep ties to their respective communities, having previously played significant roles in college football.

ESPN

The UFL's strategy to appoint coaches with local connections is a deliberate move by new investor Mike Repole, founder of Vitaminwater and Bodyarmor. Repole emphasized the importance of local resonance, stating, "I wanted to have people that resonated with the local community as much as I could." This approach aims to foster a sense of pride and connection between the teams and their fan bases. Alongside Ginn, McCarron, and Redman, other notable coaches include Rick Neuheisel for the Dallas Renegades and Kevin Sumlin for the Houston Gamblers. The only returning coaches are Shannon Harris of the DC Defenders and Anthony Becht, who will lead the Orlando Storm.

ESPN

As new head coaches, McCarron and Redman are focused on creating a positive environment for their players. McCarron, reflecting on his transition from player to coach, noted the importance of maintaining a process-oriented mindset, a principle he learned from his former coach, Nick Saban. Redman, who aims to foster a supportive atmosphere, has initiated team-building events to strengthen camaraderie among players. He stated, "I want to be exactly what I would have liked when I was playing professional football."

ESPN

Despite their enthusiasm, the new coaches face the uncertainty of their inaugural seasons. Ginn expressed concerns about the logistics of game day, including timing and penalties, while also emphasizing the desire for their teams to perform well and instill pride in their communities. Redman echoed this sentiment, highlighting the significance of the teams to their respective cities and the passion that drives their coaching efforts.

ESPN

The 2026 UFL season marks a pivotal moment as these first-time coaches step into leadership roles, bringing with them a wealth of experience and a commitment to their local communities. As they navigate the challenges of coaching at the professional level, their shared goal remains clear: to cultivate winning teams that resonate with fans and honor their hometowns.

ESPN