Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson reveals heart-warming reason, sacrifice AJ McCarron made to join XFL

XFL owner Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson shared huge praise for former Alabama star AJ McCarron after he shared the reason he joined the league. According to McCarron in an interview, the newest star XFL quarterback opted for a starting role in the league this season instead of pursuing a backup role at the NFL level — entirely for his kids.

Johnson saw McCarron’s heartwarming story shared and pointed to it as a reason the XFL is special, giving players and fans who love the sport of football another outlet for the love of the game.

The Rock shouts out AJ McCarron for joining XFL over NFL option

“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,” said Johnson on Sunday.

McCarron certainly is loving the start of his career with the XFL, as his interview confirmed where he revealed he passed up on NFL backup money for the opportunity to play the sport.

“My 6-year-old loves watching tape of me on YouTube,” said McCarron. “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 former Alabama star has led the St. Louis Battlehawks to two come-from-behind victories now to open their season 2-0, throwing for 374 yards and four touchdowns on the season so far.