George Harris
Sep 24, 2023 - 10:35

The Rock Delivers Message to AJ McCarron Upon XFL Departure

Former XFL quarterback AJ McCarron has returned to the NFL by signing with the Cincinnati Bengals' practice squad. McCarron played for the St. Louis Battlehawks in the XFL, leading the league in touchdown passes and completion percentage. Actor and XFL co-owner Dwyane "The Rock" Johnson congratulated McCarron on his return.

Quarterback AJ McCarron recently made a return to the NFL after joining the XFL earlier this year. Dwyane "The Rock" Johnson, who is not only an actor and wrestler but also a co-owner of the XFL, had a message for McCarron when he first joined the league. Now, as McCarron leaves the XFL to rejoin the Cincinnati Bengals, Johnson has another message for him.

Johnson took to Twitter to express his support for McCarron, saying, "Love this. Congratulations, AJ. I'll be rooting you on this NFL Bengals season!! Thank you for being such a tremendous leader for us in the XFL. Go be great. #LeagueofOpportunity."

McCarron, who was selected by the Bengals in the 2014 NFL Draft, has returned to his original team by signing with their practice squad. Prior to joining the XFL, McCarron played for the St. Louis Battlehawks, where he had an impressive season. He completed 203-of-295 passes for 2,150 yards, with 24 touchdowns and six interceptions in nine games. McCarron led the league in touchdown passes, completion percentage, and passing-efficiency rating.

The XFL provided McCarron with an opportunity to get back on the field after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament during an NFL preseason game in 2021. When McCarron joined the XFL, Johnson emphasized the high expectations they had for him. Johnson said, "We, as you know, expect big things from you, man."

McCarron's return to the Bengals comes at a time when their starting quarterback, Joe Burrow, is dealing with a calf injury. Burrow's status for the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Rams is listed as questionable. If Burrow is unable to play, Jake Browning, who has minimal NFL experience, will be next in line on the Bengals' quarterback depth chart. The team also has Reid Sinnett on their practice squad, who rejoined the team after the New England Patriots signed another quarterback from their practice squad.

Overall, McCarron's return to the NFL is a significant moment for him and the Bengals. With the support of Dwyane "The Rock" Johnson and his impressive performance in the XFL, McCarron has the opportunity to make a positive impact on the field and prove himself as a leader for his team.