Former Cincinnati Bengals Quarterback AJ McCarron has hit the ground running in his first season in the XFL, leading the St. Louis Battlehawks to two thrilling comeback victories for a 2-0 start.
In addition to his performance on the field, McCarron received praise from XFL Owner Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson on Friday due to his decision to leave the NFL to pursue a career where he could «make memories» with his two young children.
AJ McCarron, #10 of the St. Louis Battlehawks, prepares to throw a pass against the San Antonio Brahamas at the Alamodome on February 19, 2023 in San Antonio. (Ronald Cortes/Getty Images)
«It takes less money to sign with us the nfl because he wanted his little kids to see him play,» Johnson said of McCarron in a tweet Friday morning.
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«He’s now 2-0 and led his team to exciting back-to-back wins in the last minute. I’d say he’s making some memories for his guys. AJ’s decision means a lot to me, personally.»
Johnson was referring to comments McCarron made last week regarding his decision to pursue a career in the XFL instead of the NFL, where he served as a backup quarterback for teams, including the atlanta Falcons, the Houston Texans and the Las Vegas Raiders.
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AJ McCarron, #5 of the Atlanta Falcons, looks to pass against the Tennessee Titans during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on August 13, 2021 in Atlanta. (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
«My 6-year-old son loves watching videos of me on YouTube. That’s a big reason I chose to come back this way,» McCarron said, via the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
«I probably could have tried to come back with an NFL team and have a chance to make more money, but no one knows what the future holds. I’m enjoying this and it’s a great way to make some memories for myself.» and my boys.»
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The Battlehawks defeated the Seattle Sea Dragons on Thursday night, 20-18, after McCarron led his team to a fourth-quarter comeback. Placekicker Donny Hageman, who played in san diego state before moving on to the Arena Football League, he cemented the win with a 44-yard field goal.
A. J. McCarron. Number 10 of the St. Louis Battlehawks fights against the San Antonio Brahamas at the Alamodome on February 19, 2023 in San Antonio. (Ronald Cortes/Getty Images)
McCarron completed 22 passes for 184 yards and a touchdown in that game. He also rushed for 41 yards and another rushing score.
«Since coming out of college I’ve been written off a bit,» McCarron said after the game. «And it’s fun to come here and play. I miss playing, not always being a backup and that’s a great way to live. It really is and I love it, but I love playing. This is special and I can’t thank you.» the XFL enough».