Southwest Kansas, Salina Join the NAL as Idaho Takes a Step Back for 2026 Season
The landscape of the National Arena League (NAL) will look a little different heading into the upcoming season. Two new programs from Kansas — Southwest Kansas and Salina — are set to join the league, bringing fresh energy to the growing indoor football scene in the Midwest. Meanwhile, the Idaho franchise has announced that it will go dormant for the 2026 campaign, signaling a shift in the league’s balance.
A New Era in Kansas
The addition of Southwest Kansas and Salina marks an exciting step for the NAL’s expansion strategy. Both franchises bring strong ties to football-rich communities eager for professional indoor action.
Salina in particular has a history of supporting arena football, with fans already familiar with the high-octane pace of the indoor game. Their inclusion is expected to make them an immediate competitive draw, while Southwest Kansas aims to establish itself as a tough, gritty team representing its region with pride. Together, they give the NAL a stronger foothold in the Midwest, which has been an untapped market for the league.
Idaho Steps Away
On the other side of the equation, Idaho’s decision to go dormant is a disappointment for fans who rallied around the team in recent seasons. While not folding entirely, the franchise announced it would pause operations for 2026 due to logistical and financial challenges. League officials have expressed optimism that Idaho could return in future years once stability is regained.
What It Means for the League
With two new franchises entering and one stepping back, the NAL heads into its next season with both excitement and uncertainty. The Kansas additions help maintain league size while also injecting fresh rivalries and fan bases. Travel logistics also become more centralized with the cluster of teams in Kansas, reducing strain for other clubs.
At the same time, the league loses a western presence with Idaho’s hiatus. For now, the spotlight shifts toward Kansas, where both Salina and Southwest Kansas have an opportunity to make immediate impressions on the league and its fans.
As training camps and rosters begin to take shape, the 2026 NAL season promises to be one of transition, growth, and plenty of intrigue.
