CNY Blue Devils: The Future of Arena Football in Upstate New York

Arena football has found a new heartbeat in Upstate New York — and it’s wearing blue. The CNY Blue Devils, one of the newest franchises in the WIF Arena Football Conference, are quickly establishing themselves as a rising force both on and off the field. The Brotherhood based team in their inaugural is eager to take the field.

Founded and led by AJ Macomber, a former arena football quarterback and current free agent, the Central New York Blue Devils were built on brotherhood and a mission bigger than the game — to create opportunity, community, and excitement for athletes and fans across the region. Macomber envisions the blue devils to be the future of arena football in New York.

Macomber envisioned a team that would not only compete, but represent Central New York’s toughness, culture, brotherhood and pride. Partnering with local supporters like Mayne’s Legacy of Syracuse, he’s created an organization rooted in discipline, integrity, and growth — one where players develop as professionals and men.

That foundation has already begun to take shape. The Blue Devils recently held an autograph signing with a local youth team, emphasizing their commitment to giving back and inspiring the next generation. The event drew families and young athletes from across the area, showing that this team’s impact stretches far beyond the gridiron.

On the field, the Blue Devils boast a dynamic, fast-paced roster of versatile athletes. Defensive captain Tommy Howard sets the tone with leadership and grit, Tommy Howard, a proven leader and standout safety, anchors the defensive unit with intensity and heart. His ability to rally teammates and make big-time plays has already made him one of the most respected figures in the WIF while Quarterback Jomari Paskell, recently named Player of the Week, against the Southern New Jersey Panthers he will continue to turn heads with his playmaking ability and poise under pressure.

Adding speed and explosiveness to the roster is Carl Greene, a running back and nickel hybrid who’s making his return to Upstate New York. Greene played for SUNY Cortland for one season, finished at Umass Dartmouth and started at division 1 University of Rhode Island (URI), and after a successful international season this past summer, he’s bringing his athleticism back to upstate New York where he had a stint in 2021 to fuel this new chapter of arena football. Greene played with Howard at AT & T Stadium in Dallas. Greene had an impressive international game in Canada winning MVP of the event. Greene was also seen playing slot receiver which will fit his speed and athletic style of play. We have yet to see him in action for the blue devils. Greene who went to three colleges, has been on quite the journey along with many of his other teammates has been on quite the football journey as well.

With strong community roots and a growing local following, the Blue Devils have already drawn attention from local media and sponsors. Their first major partnership, with Maynes Legacy of Syracuse, represents a shared commitment to discipline, brotherhood and excellence, and giving back to the city that raised them. The brotherhood of the team seems unparalleled.

The Blue Devils are set to face a fierce slate in their inaugural season:

• Southern New Jersey Panthers

• Pittsburgh Outlaws

• Ohio Legends

• St. Paul Minn Bears

• Wisconsin Aviators (Season Finale)

All home games will be held at the Toyota Coliseum in Syracuse, an arena perfectly suited to the high-octane, fast-paced style of the indoor game. Fans can expect a full show — lights, music, and the kind of speed & intensity that only arena football brings.

But what separates this team isn’t just athletic talent — it’s the brotherhood and most of all Macomber’s vision. The CNY Blue Devils are here to set a standard, to give Upstate athletes a platform, and to reignite the spark of arena football across the region.

In just a short time, they’ve proven they’re not just another expansion team — they’re the start of something special.

With a strong culture, a driven roster, and a brotherly, community-first approach, the CNY Blue Devils are building a foundation that could define the future of arena football in New York for years to come.