by Howie Hanson

Arena Football One opens its 2026 season next weekend with four games that highlight a league led by a clear favorite and a group of challengers still taking shape.

Defending champion Albany hosts Minnesota on Saturday in a matchup that serves as an early benchmark. The Firebirds finished 12-0 in 2025 and won the Arena Crown behind veteran depth, defensive pressure and efficient offense. Coach Damon Ware said this year’s team may be stronger.

“Week 1 is loaded with action from top to bottom,” said Gary Compton, the league’s director of football operations.

Minnesota enters with a retooled roster and added defensive experience but opens against the league’s most stable team. The Monsters are led by quarterback Jvonte Johnson, wide receiver Jamal Couch, defensive end Claude Davis and running back Shannon Brooks.

“We kick things off with a marquee matchup between two championship-caliber teams,” Compton said. “It’s a must-see opener and a perfect way to start the season.”

Sunday’s schedule features three games that will begin to define the rest of the league. Michigan visits Kentucky in a matchup between two teams still establishing identity. Oregon travels to Washington in a game that will test depth and consistency. Beaumont, the 2025 NAL champion, faces Oceanside in a meeting of expansion teams with limited arena history and uncertain outcomes.

“Sunday brings a full slate with a mix of established teams and expansion debuts,” Compton said. “This is shaping up to be a strong opening week.”

Albany remains the team to beat, led by reigning MVP quarterback Sam Castronova, who returns after throwing for 1,735 yards and 48 touchdowns with three interceptions in 2025. He added five rushing touchdowns and accounted for 17 total scores in the postseason.

Castronova briefly signed with the United Football League’s Memphis Showboats during the offseason but returned after a league restructuring and draft process left him unselected.

Albany also returns key offensive contributors, including receivers Duane Brown, Isiah Scott and Darien Townsend, along with a veteran offensive line. Several defensive starters return, though the secondary includes new additions.

The Firebirds placed kicker Henry Nell on the physically unable to perform list because of medical issues, with the team awaiting clearance for his return.

Week 1 Schedule (all times EDT)

Saturday, April 11
Minnesota at Albany, 6 p.m.

Sunday, April 12
Michigan at Kentucky, 5 p.m.
Oregon at Washington, 6 p.m.
Beaumont at Oceanside, 8 p.m.

Week 1 Bye
Nashville

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Read more from Howie Hanson at howiehanson.com