Arena football fans across Louisiana have something new to circle on the calendar.

The Amarillo Dusters are officially leaving Texas and heading to the Bayou State. According to TheBullAmarillo.com, the franchise has been sold and will relocate to Louisiana, continuing the state’s long-standing connection to arena and indoor football. While the team’s final landing spot has not yet to be announced, the move alone has already created buzz among fans across the state.

Arena football has always been a natural fit in Louisiana. The game is fast, physical, high-scoring, and loud — everything fans here appreciate. Having been around during the original Bayou Bucks era, and a season ticket holder for the New Orleans VooDoo while representing fans on a league-wide level as a member of the Arena Football League’s Fans Council team, there’s no question this style of football resonates here. Louisiana fans don’t just attend games — they invest in teams, create atmosphere, and help shape the culture of the league itself.

New State, New Name — With Familiar Roots

With the move comes a new identity. In a Facebook press release, the organization confirmed the team will be known as the Bayou Bucks, a name that carries real history in South Louisiana.

Houma previously hosted the Houma Bayou Bucks in the early 2000s as part of the National Indoor Football League. That franchise played from 2002–2004 at the Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center. Despite the short run and eventual folding of the team following legal disputes involving the Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government, the Bayou Bucks name left a lasting impression on local fans.

Now, that name gets a second life — this time backed by new ownership, fresh leadership, and a vision focused on sustainability.

Building the Bayou Bucks for the Long Haul

According to new owner Jacob Hector, the organization is actively evaluating venues across Louisiana to determine the best long-term home for the team. The goal is for the Bayou Bucks to be ready to take the field for the 2027 season.

Hector emphasized financial stability as a top priority, stating the team will not rely solely on outside investors to operate. Instead, the plan is to build a sustainable organization while still creating opportunities for partnerships with local businesses and community organizations. The franchise also announced that Kaleb Melanson will serve as Vice President.

For fans who have seen indoor teams come and go, that commitment to structure and stability is a promising sign.

Where Could the Bayou Bucks Land?

Current discussions appear to be centered around South Louisiana, which makes sense given the existing arena football landscape in the state. North Louisiana is already represented, with the Louisiana Rouxgaroux in Shreveport and the Monroe Greenheads set to begin play in 2026.

That leaves significant opportunity in the southern half of the state — an area rich in football tradition, community pride, and proven fan support. Wherever the Bayou Bucks ultimately land, the potential for packed houses and strong local rivalries is already there.

Louisiana’s Arena Football Scene Continues to Grow

Louisiana has a deep indoor football footprint. Cities such as New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lake Charles, Lafayette, and Houma have all supported arena or indoor football teams over the years. The addition of the Bayou Bucks only adds to that growing legacy.

With a familiar name, experienced leadership, and fans already invested in the sport at both the local and league-wide level, excitement will continue to build as more details are revealed.

Fans can follow the Bayou Bucks on Social Media  for the latest updates, announcements, and behind-the-scenes news:

https://www.facebook.com/share/1ASkzdRbwj/?mibextid=wwXIfr

https://www.instagram.com/bayou_bucks_football?igsh=Z2g3ZmV5amttNW1w

Wherever the Bayou Bucks end up calling home, one thing is clear — arena football has a strong future in Louisiana, and the fan base is ready for it.