Memphis AD Ed Scott says 'we have to monetize' Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium

The Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium $225 million-plus renovation project — down the stretch it comes. Nearly two years after work officially began on Memphis football’s home since 1965, the finish line is in sight. The first game in the Tigers’ gussied-up digs will be Sept.

5 against Arkansas State. Memphis will play at least six games at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in 2026. The Southern Heritage Classic and the AutoZone Liberty Bowl will make it home to eight total events in the first four months post-makeover.

But that’s not enough for Memphis athletic director Ed Scott . “We have to monetize the stadium,” he told The Commercial Appeal during a recent exclusive interview. “Because right now we play 7-9 football games in that stadium a year, and it’s the largest asset that we have as the Memphis Athletics Foundation — the largest one I’m in charge of, and we only monetize it 7-9 times.

“That’s not a good thing. ” Since taking the project baton upon his June 2024 hire, Scott has been upfront about the importance of diversifying Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium’s functionality. In previous interviews, he specifically mentioned the prospect of hosting Monster Truck rallies, wrestling matches, motocross races, Savannah Bananas events and concerts.