Why did A.J. McCarron choose XFL over NFL? Battlehawks QB's decision invites Dwayne Johnson praise

Former NFL quarterback A.J. McCarron was one of the featured players heading into the 2023 XFL season, and he seems to be enjoying the new league.

The former three-time national champion spent eight years in the NFL after being drafted in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL draft.

He spent his career as a backup for the Cincinnati Bengals, Oakland Raiders, and Houston Texans. In 2023, he joined the XFL and the St. Louis Battlehawks.

McCarron and the Battlehawks played in their second game of the season last night against the Seattle Sea Dragons.

Following their second game, McCaron praised the new league and explained why he chose to play in the XFL.

McCarron said:

" My 6-year old loves watching tape of me on YouTube. That's a big reason I chose to return this way. I probably could've tried to come back with an NFL team and had a chance to probably make bigger money. but no one knows what the future holds. I'm enjoying this and it's a great way to create some memories for me and my boys."

The Rock responded:

"Takes less money signing with us over the @NFL because he wanted his little boys to see him play. Now he’s 2-0 and led his team to back to back exciting last minute wins. I’d say he’s creating some memories for his boys. AJ’s decision means a helluva lot to me, personally. #XFL."

A.J. McCarron has led the St. Louis Battlehawks to a 2-0 record

St Louis Battlehawks v San Antonio Brahmas

Through the first two games of the XFL season, McCarron has led the Battlehawks to a 2-0 record.

In the first game, the Battlehawks defeated the San Antonio Brahmas, 18-15. McCarron threw for two touchdowns and a 3-point conversion in the final 85 seconds.

Last night, they defeated the Seattle Sea Dragons 20-18 as they scored the game-winning field goal as time expired.

The Battlehawks and McCarron will get a much-needed break after playing this week. They will be back in action next Sunday at D.C. as the Defenders host them in Week 3.

Three games will be played this weekend to conclude Week 3. The D.C. Defenders will play in Vegas against the Vipers on Saturday, and there will be a Sunday doubleheader as the Brahmas face the Guardians in Orlando and the Renegades play at Houston against the Roughnecks.

If you use any of the above quotes, please credit The Rock, AJ McCarron, Gateway Grinders, and H/T Sportskeeda