AF1 Head Coach Shawn Liotta to Attend 2026 National Scouting Combine in Naples

The 2026 National Scouting Combine will welcome another key decision-maker from the professional ranks, as Shawn Liotta, Head Football Coach of the Michigan Arsenal, confirms his attendance at this year’s event in Naples, Florida.

Liotta, who leads one of the newest franchises in Arena Football One (AF1), will be on-site throughout the week evaluating talent and engaging directly with prospects pursuing professional opportunities at the arena level. His presence further reinforces the National Scouting Combine’s role as the official combine and scouting partner of AF1, providing athletes with direct access to league decision-makers.

Evaluating Talent Across the Board

When asked what he prioritizes while scouting at the National Scouting Combine, Liotta made it clear that opportunity exists at every position group.

“Looking for top talent at all positions,” Liotta said. “Offensive and defensive lines are always a priority.”

That emphasis reflects the demands of the arena game, where physicality, leverage, and consistency in the trenches often determine success. For linemen and skill players alike, the Combine provides a controlled environment for coaches like Liotta to evaluate measurable performance, football IQ, and competitive temperament.

Transitioning to the Arena Game

Liotta also addressed the learning curve many outdoor football players face when transitioning to arena football — a faster, more condensed version of the game that rewards precision and adaptability.

“We will teach players the intricacies of the game,” Liotta explained. “You have to be coachable and detail oriented in your approach as a rookie.”

That mindset aligns directly with the National Scouting Combine’s emphasis on preparation, accountability, and professional readiness. Athletes who demonstrate attentiveness, adaptability, and a willingness to learn often separate themselves as viable roster candidates in the eyes of arena coaches.

Professionalism Matters — On and Off the Field

Beyond physical talent, Liotta stressed that character and conduct play a major role in roster decisions at the professional level.

“Understand that everything you do is being evaluated both on and off the field,” he said. “We are looking for the most talented players in the country, but also individuals who represent our AF1 brand appropriately and are positive ambassadors of Michigan Arsenal Arena Football in the community.”

AF1 Leadership Will Be On-Site at the 2026 Combine

As the official combine and scouting partner of Arena Football One, the National Scouting Combine will host AF1 league leadership, front office personnel, and coaching staff on-site throughout the week in Naples. Their presence provides athletes with direct access to decision-makers actively building rosters and evaluating talent for the upcoming AF1 season.