In a sweeping move that signals a new era, the United Football League (UFL) has parted ways with all eight of its general managers ahead of the upcoming season.
The news was first reported by league insider James Larsen, who emphasized that the decision was not financially motivated but rather the first step in a broader reorganization of football operations.
According to Larsen, the UFL is shifting toward a unified personnel structure designed to streamline decision-making across the league. This was further detailed by journalist Mike Mitchell, who outlined the key leadership changes accompanying the overhaul.
Operations & Reassignments
Russ Brandon, who previously served as the league’s CEO, has been reassigned as Executive Vice President of Football Operations. In this new role, Brandon will oversee all player-related decisions, including scouting, roster construction, and personnel management. Mitchell described Brandon as the “Grand Central Station” for football operations moving forward.
On the business side, Mike Repole has joined the league as co-owner and will assume complete control of commercial operations. His responsibilities will span revenue generation, marketing, ticketing, venue strategy, and corporate partnerships. Repole’s arrival is expected to bring a more aggressive and modernized approach to the league’s business model.
The restructuring comes amid a flurry of offseason developments, including new team locations, venue changes, and a league-wide uniform redesign that has yet to be unveiled. Historically, the UFL has maintained a low profile during the offseason, with limited updates from ownership. However, the recent changes suggest a more proactive and ambitious direction under Repole’s leadership.
Coaches Go Full Time
In addition to the removal of general managers, all UFL and former XFL head coaches will now operate under full-time contracts. This change grants them greater influence over roster decisions, although final approvals will still come from the league’s central office in Arlington, Texas.
Currently, only 5 of 8 head coaches have been announced for the 2026 season. Several returning coaches will remain with their same team, and others will be hired in the coming weeks. Below is the current list of 2026
UFL coaches and teams.
- Birmingham Stallions – Skip Holtz
- Dallas Renegades – Bob Stoops
- DC Defenders – Shannon Harris
- Houston Gamblers – Curtis Johnson
- Louis Battlehawks – Anthony Becht
- Columbus Aviators – TBD
- Louisville Kings – TBD
- Orlando Storm – TBD