BREAKING: USFL and XFL formally announce intention to merge

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Birmingham Stallions
Scenes from the Birmingham Stallions v. New Jersey Generals inaugural USFL game at Protective Stadium on April 16, 2022. (Jacob Blankenship/Bham Now)

The Birmingham-based United States Football League (USFL) and XFL have announced their intention to merge today.

Formal USFL/XFL public announcement

Below is the announcement that was released on social media.

XFL AND USFL ANNOUNCE INTENT

TO MERGE NEW YORK – September 28, 2023 – Today, the United States Football League (“USFL”) and the XFL announced their intention to merge. Subject to customary regulatory approvals and if the transaction is consummated, the new league will establish best-in-class operations based on the most recent seasons of both leagues. This historic combination will anchor professional spring football with substantial capabilities and resources to ensure future growth and continue to enhance the development of the collective players, coaches, and

staff that are coming together. More details regarding the new league will be

announced at a later date.

Differences between the USFL & XFL

The two leagues are different.

For example, the XFL season runs between February to early May. The games were broadcast on ABC, ESPN, ESPN2 and FX.

On the other hand, the USFL begins their season in April and ends in late June. They also use a hub model with eight teams playing in 4 cities. In their inaugural season, the USFL played the entire regular season in the Magic City. 

2023 List of USFL/XFL teams

Currently, the leagues have 16 teams. They are:

USFL Teams

  • Birmingham Stallions
  • Houston Gamblers
  • Memphis Showboats 
  • Michigan Panthers
  • New Jersey Generals
  • New Orleans Breakers
  • Philadelphia Stars 
  • Pittsburgh Maulers.

XFL Teams

  • Arlington Renegades 
  • D.C. Defenders
  • Houston Roughnecks 
  • Orlando Guardians
  • San Antonio Brahmas
  • Seattle Sea Dragons
  • St. Louis Battlehawks
  • Vegas Vipers.
USFL
Birmingham Stallions QB Alex McGough with Birmingham Randall Woodfin at the USFL Championship trophy presentation (Larry O. Gay)

The Birmingham Stallions are the two-time reigning champs of the USFL, while the Arlington Renegades won the inaugural 2023 championship for the XFL.

What do you think of the merger? Stay tuned to Bham Now for additional updates.

Pat Byington
Pat Byington

Longtime conservationist. Former Executive Director at the Alabama Environmental Council and Wild South. Publisher of the Bama Environmental News for more than 18 years. Career highlights include playing an active role in the creation of Alabama's Forever Wild program, Little River Canyon National Preserve, Dugger Mountain Wilderness, preservation of special places throughout the East through the Wilderness Society and the strengthening (making more stringent) the state of Alabama's cancer risk and mercury standards.

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