Arena Football One (AF1) is proud to kick off its series of expansion announcements with the addition of the Beaumont Renegades for the 2026 season. The Renegades organization is on the rise and committed to competing at the highest level of the fifty-yard game.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome the championship-caliber Renegades to AF1,” said Commissioner Jeff Fisher. “Our goal is to keep building this league to be the best it can be for players, fans, and communities.”
The Beaumont Renegades are entering only their second season, but they already bring championship pedigree to AF1 after capturing a title in their inaugural 2025 campaign. Their rapid rise, commitment to excellence, and focus on brand growth make them a perfect fit for the league.
The Renegades are led by co-owners Rodney Robichau and Deatrich Wise Jr. Wise, entering his ninth NFL season and first with the Washington Commanders, comes from an arena football family—his father, Deatrich Wise Sr., played multiple seasons for the Tampa Bay Storm. Off the field, Wise operates several businesses, including an award-winning vegetarian restaurant in Massachusetts. Robichau, a Beaumont native, owns a business services company and has long been active in the local community.
“AF1 is run exceptionally well, with Jerry Kurz and Jeff Fisher at the helm,” said Robichau. “Coach Fisher’s 18 years as an NFL head coach stood out to us among all the leagues we considered. The Beaumont Renegades are eager to take on this new challenge and bring our 2025 championship to AF1.”
Returning as head coach is Corey Mayfield, who guided the team to a 7-1 record and a championship victory last season. A former ironman lineman with over eight years in arena football—as well as time in the NFL, NFL Europe, and XFL—Mayfield brings deep knowledge of the game and a proven winning approach.
Preparations for the 2026 AF1 season are well underway, with league and team leadership working to secure partnerships, finalize additional expansion teams, and set the stage for a thrilling season ahead. More expansion announcements are coming in the days ahead.
