What Is the UFL? Your Complete Guide
Your complete guide to the United Football League — the fastest-growing spring football league in America.
What is the UFL?
The United Football League (UFL) is a professional spring football league formed in 2024 through the merger of the USFL and XFL. With 8 teams competing from March through June, the UFL fills the gap between the NFL Super Bowl and the start of NFL training camps. The league features innovative rules, exciting gameplay, and serves as a development pathway for players aiming to reach the NFL.
For 2026, under new investor Mike Repole, the UFL has expanded with three new teams, eliminated divisions in favor of a unified eight-team format, and shifted toward smaller, soccer-specific stadiums for a more intimate game-day atmosphere.
The 8 Teams — 2026
*Dallas Renegades — formerly the Arlington Renegades; relocated from Choctaw Stadium to Toyota Stadium.
**Houston Gamblers — formerly the Houston Roughnecks; reverted to the original USFL name.
The Memphis Showboats, Michigan Panthers, and San Antonio Brahmas were folded to make room for the three new expansion teams.
How the Season Works
10
Regular Season Games
4
Teams Make Playoffs
1
Championship Game
The season runs from late March through mid-June. Divisions have been eliminated for 2026 — the top 4 teams regardless of conference advance to the playoffs beginning June 7, culminating in the UFL Championship Game. Check the full schedule and standings.
UFL Rules That Are Different
4-Point Field Goals (new for 2026)
Field goals from 60 yards or longer are worth 4 points — a UFL first introduced for the 2026 season.
Standard PAT Kicks
After a touchdown, teams kick a standard 1-point PAT. The UFL reverted to traditional PATs for 2026, with 2-point tries from the 2-yard line still optional.
One-Foot-In-Bounds Catch
For 2026, the UFL restored the one-foot catch rule — a receiver only needs one foot in bounds to complete a reception, matching college football.
Overtime Shootout
Teams alternate 2-point tries from the 5-yard line, best of 3 rounds. If still tied, sudden-death rounds continue. A second defensive live-ball foul during OT results in an automatic good try for the offense.
Kickoff Rules
Kickoff teams line up at the receiving team's 35-yard line to encourage returns and reduce injuries.
Double Forward Pass
Two forward passes are allowed per play as long as the first is thrown from behind the line of scrimmage.
Shorter Play Clock
A 35-second play clock keeps the game moving faster than the NFL's 40 seconds.
Where to Watch
All UFL games are broadcast on FOX, FS1, ESPN, ABC, and NFL Network. Check your local listings or stream on the FOX Sports and ESPN apps.