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ABOUT THE AAL DRAFT
The 2026 AAL Draft is the official league-run player selection process for the American Arena League and its developmental division, AAL2.
This inaugural draft establishes a formal pathway for eligible players to be evaluated, selected, and assigned to participating teams for the upcoming season.
This is not a tryout.
This is a professional draft.
WHEN & WHERE
WHEN:
April 19TH, 2026
11:00am
WHERE:
The Beck Center
1801 Box Road
Columbus, Georgia
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TEAM ELIGIBLE TO DRAFT
The following AAL teams are qualified to participate in the 2026 Draft:
• Columbus Lions
• Wheeling Miners
• Mississippi Wolfpack
• Jersey Bearcats
All AAL2 teams with players who have applied and been approved for draft eligibility are also eligible to participate.
PLAYER ELIGIBILITY
Who Can Enter the Draft
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Players must meet all eligibility requirements to be considered:
• Not currently under contract with any participating AAL team
• Have formally declared draft eligibility
• Completed all required draft documentation
• Paid the $15 draft entrance fee
Eligibility is reviewed and approved by the league.
DRAFT PROCESS
How the Draft Works
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• The 2026 draft is the inaugural year
• Round 1 will be determined by random selection, announced by the Commissioner
• Rounds 2–4 will follow a snake-style draft
• Total selections: 16 picks
Draft Timing
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• Each team has 5 minutes per selection
• Failure to select within the allotted time results in forfeiture of that pick
• A forfeited pick may result in a compensatory pick at the end of the draft
• A second missed selection results in forfeiture without compensation
PLAYER RIGHTS &
RESPONSIBILITIES
Drafted Players
• Drafted players’ rights are immediately assigned to the drafting team
• Drafted players do not attend tryouts
• Drafted players report directly to their assigned team’s camp
• Players must report as directed or face league suspension for that season
Once in camp, drafted players compete for an active roster spot.
TRADES
Trading Draft Picks
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• Draft pick trading is allowed for the 2026 draft year only
• Teams may trade picks or players after selection, if mutually agreed upon
REGISTRATION
What You’ll Need
• Personal & contact information
• Playing experience (college/pro)
• Film or highlight link (recommended)
• Height, weight, and position
• Agreement to league terms and conditions
