The United Football League is reportedly shaking things up for the 2026 season, with rumors swirling about the relocation of the Birmingham Stallions, Michigan Panthers, Memphis Showboats and Houston Roughnecks. While some fanbases are understandably heartbroken, this still presents an exciting opportunity for new cities to join the spring football landscape. We’ve scoured the map for potential landing spots, looking at both cities rumored for expansion already as well as vibrant communities with a hunger for spring football action. Here are eight cities that could provide the perfect new home for UFL franchises.
Louisville, Kentucky
The Derby City has a rich sporting tradition and a passionate fanbase eager for more professional sports, as represented by their multiple bids for professional sports expansion franchises in the NBA and otherwise. With a perfect size venue like Lynn Family Stadium, Louisville could easily accommodate a UFL team and provide a raucous atmosphere.
Seattle, Washington
Oh, how Seattle longs for the Seadragons! Despite the obvious travel distance from the league’s current footprint, the demand for spring football in the Pacific Northwest is undeniable. The XFL’s Seattle Dragons were a fan favorite, and their loyal following would undoubtedly embrace a UFL team with open arms, ready to fill Lumen Field with electric energy once more.
Columbus, Ohio
This would be a tough pill to swallow for Michigan Panthers fans, but Columbus boasts a massive population and a deep-rooted love for football. As the 14th-largest market in the U.S., the city offers a substantial potential fanbase, and with the Ohio State Buckeyes creating a consistent football buzz, a UFL team here could tap into a passionate, existing market. Plus, the Columbus Crew are planning a $230M Soccer Stadium (pictured above) that would fit a UFL team nicely.
Orlando, Florida
The Sunshine State has seen its share of spring football, with mixed results. However, the Orlando Apollos of the AAF were a runaway success, showcasing the city’s strong appetite for the game, despite the later struggles of the XFL’s Orlando Guardians. With a large tourism base and a history of enthusiastic support, Orlando could once again be a prime location for a UFL team.
Providence, Rhode Island
Don’t let its size fool you; Providence is a city with a growing sports scene. With the recent completion of the state-of-the-art Centreville Bank Stadium for Rhode Island FC, the infrastructure is now in place for a professional football team. This modern, intimate venue could provide a fantastic home-field advantage and a unique experience for UFL fans. Plus, you hit an underserved part of the northeast while still attracting fans from all of New England.
Kansas City, Missouri
While the Chiefs dominate the NFL landscape, Kansas City has a proven track record of supporting other professional sports. The Kansas City Current are one of the most successful teams in the NWSL. Placing a team here would instantly create a natural regional rivalry with the existing St. Louis Battlehawks, adding an exciting dynamic to the UFL schedule and drawing in fans from both sides of Missouri. Plus, the new CPKC stadium would instantly be a top class stadium in the league.
Boise, Idaho
This rapidly growing city is reportedly already on the UFL’s radar, and for good reason. Boise is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States, with its metro area population increasing to 482,000 in 2025, a 1.26% increase from 2024. This vibrant and underserved market could become a true hotbed for spring football, with a devoted local fanbase hungry for a professional team to call their own.
Sacramento, California
The capital of California offers a large media market and a burgeoning sports scene. With Sacramento State actively constructing a new stadium, the city is clearly investing in its athletic future. Plus, they’re getting experience with pro sports infrastructure by hosting the MLB’s Athletics this year. This new venue could serve as an ideal home for a UFL team, and if the Seattle Dragons were to return, Sacramento would make a perfect travel partner, building a West Coast rivalry.
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