Ex-NFL head coach takes over as Arena Football commissioner
Nov 13, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Los Angeles Rams head coach Jeff Fisher argues a call during a game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
Former NFL head coach Jeff Fisher has taken over as the commissioner for the Arena Football League (AFL).
Fisher is part of the ownership group for the Nashville Kats, which were one of the 12 teams currently in the league. The Kats folded in 2007 but were revived for the 2024 season.
According to Main Street Clarksville, the AFL owners have been unhappy with the league’s commissioner, Lee Hutton. Hutton owns the Minnesota Myth, which just suspended operations.
Fisher is the president of operations for the Kats and on Tuesday, he took over as interim commissioner.
Jeff Fisher, president of operations for @NashvilleKatsFB, confirms he is taking over as interim commissioner of @OfficialAFL
“This league is good. We’re looking forward to continuing and finishing the season.” He adds he hopes to bring integrity and truth to the league.@WSMV pic.twitter.com/LW7S3ZXH7M
— Lauren Walsh (@lauwalsh10) May 14, 2024
16 teams initially were set to play in the league this year, which is the third iteration of Arena Football. Four of the teams have since folded, leaving just 12 teams. Multiple teams/owners had been complaining about Hutton reneging on deals and failing to lead effectively.
Fisher, 66, was a long-time head coach for the Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans franchise from 1995-2010. He also coached the Rams for five seasons from 2012-2016.
Prior to his involvement in the Arena League, Fisher was the head coach and GM of the UFL’s Michigan Panthers.