The Birmingham Stallions received positive news prior to the 2025 UFL season as 2023 league MVP Alex McGough returned to the team following two seasons with the Green Bay Packers. The main question surrounding McGough’s return was which position the 29-year-old would play.
During his first stint in the UFL, McGough served as the quarterback for the Stallions. However, in the 2024 NFL offseason, the Packers transitioned him to a receiver, a position he had not played before. Birmingham head coach Skip Holtz gave a definitive answer to the question, stating that McGough would be returning to his original position of quarterback for the 2025 UFL season.
Holtz explained, “Right now, he’s been all quarterback.” Despite McGough’s successful tenure as a receiver with the Packers, Holtz’s decision was influenced by the team’s strong wide receiver lineup, featuring former NFL players like Deon Cain, Amari Rodgers, and Austin Watkins Jr.
Holtz expressed confidence in McGough’s ability to reclaim the starting quarterback role for the Stallions, highlighting his exceptional performance during the 2023 season. Although McGough faced challenges readjusting to the quarterback position, Holtz and his staff worked on a modified throwing plan to address any rustiness and fatigue.
The competition for the starting quarterback position included Matt Corral, who played alongside 2024 UFL MVP Adrian Martinez last season. Despite the competition and the retirement of veteran J’Mar Smith, McGough was expected to continue as the quarterback, with the possibility of transitioning to a receiver if the need arose.
Holtz acknowledged that McGough had the versatility to play as a receiver if required, recalling a past game where McGough volunteered to fill in due to injuries within the team. The coach emphasized the importance of players being adaptable in various situations.
Looking ahead, the Birmingham Stallions were considered favorites to secure their fourth consecutive UFL championship title.
The league’s smaller roster size allows players to play multiple positions, but this is not usually the case for the quarterback position. The 61-year-old coach appreciates McGough’s willingness to play receiver despite his lack of experience in that role. Holtz sees the potential in utilizing the 6-3, 214-pound McGough as a receiver due to his size, range, and speed. However, the coach is focused on determining McGough’s role as the potential starting quarterback for the team at the start of the 2025 season.
