The United Football League (UFL), formed from the merger of the USFL and XFL, is reportedly preparing to relocate all four teams from its USFL Conference. The Birmingham Stallions, Michigan Panthers, Houston Roughnecks, and Memphis Showboats are expected to leave their current markets ahead of the 2026 season.

New Cities in the Mix

Reports suggest the league is eyeing several new locations, including Columbus (Ohio), a city in Florida (possibly Orlando), Boise (Idaho), and either Louisville or Lexington (Kentucky). These moves appear to be part of a broader plan to reshape the league’s geographic footprint.

Why the Change?

The UFL has struggled with declining attendance and waning television ratings in 2025. Average attendance dropped by about five percent from the previous season, with just over 12,000 fans per game. Memphis, in particular, saw alarming numbers, averaging under 4,000 fans per game.

Even successful markets like Birmingham and Michigan weren’t spared. Despite Birmingham winning three straight titles and Michigan improving attendance year-over-year, both are being moved as part of a cost-cutting and market-repositioning effort. League insiders point to high travel expenses and limited local media engagement as major factors.

League Response

The UFL has not confirmed the relocations but released a brief statement calling the reports “unauthorized speculation.” It said plans for future seasons are still being evaluated.

Fan Backlash

Fans in Birmingham and Michigan have reacted strongly. Campaigns to save the teams have surfaced online, including petitions and social media efforts. Thousands of signatures have been collected urging the league to reconsider.

Who’s Staying

The four XFL-rooted franchises appear to be safe for now. The Arlington Renegades, DC Defenders, San Antonio Brahmas, and St. Louis Battlehawks are all expected to remain in their current cities. Officials in San Antonio even reaffirmed their commitment to keeping the Brahmas at the Alamodome.

Summary of Team Status

• Birmingham Stallions – relocating

• Michigan Panthers – relocating

• Houston Roughnecks – relocating

• Memphis Showboats – relocating

• Arlington Renegades – staying

• DC Defenders – staying

• San Antonio Brahmas – staying

• St. Louis Battlehawks – staying

Looking Ahead

This potential overhaul signals a major shift for the UFL. Whether it leads to stronger markets and increased fan engagement remains to be seen. In the meantime, communities losing their teams are left with frustration and uncertainty about the future of spring football in their cities.