3 Key Points
- The UFL is considering keeping the current eight teams for the 2025 season.
- Michigan Panthers and Houston Roughnecks may relocate to improve attendance.
- The league is deciding between two potential start dates: March 1st or March 29th.
As the inaugural season of the United Football League (UFL) enters its final two weeks, there's still plenty of action happening behind the scenes. While fans are focused on the conclusion of the regular season, league officials and stakeholders are already looking ahead to the 2025 season.
8 Teams Staying Put In 2025
According to sources close to the situation, the UFL is leaning towards maintaining the current roster of eight teams for the 2025 season. With the league officially launching in January. The new merged league between the XFL and USFL faced a compressed timeline for its first season. UFL President and CEO Russ Brandon and other decision-makers believe that 2025 will be a redo or "mulligan".
They feel that giving all eight teams a full off-season to establish themselves in their markets with marketing and ticketing people in place is the best course of action. The league wants to show stability to the fan base for 2025.
Panthers And Roughnecks Could Be On The Move
Despite the overall plan to keep the current teams in place, there are rumblings that the Michigan Panthers and Houston Roughnecks may be exploring new home venues for the 2025 season. The Panthers, who currently play at Ford Field, are reportedly considering a move to either East Lansing or Ann Arbor, Michigan. Meanwhile, the Roughnecks are planning to return to TDECU Stadium. Both potential moves are aimed at boosting attendance figures and bringing the product closer to families in the case on Michigan.
No Expansion In 2025
While the UFL merger agreement included a provision for the league to expand to 10 teams in its second year. That appears unlikely in 2025. The league is still working on a secondary budget plan for a 10-team format as a contingency. It is one of those ask for forgiveness not permission type things. One spring football league is better than no spring football league. The league will ask for a reprieve for the 2025 season with expansion in its sights for the 2026 season if all goes well.
Internally, there are factions advocating for maintaining the current eight-team structure and another wants the league at ten-teams. The final decision will likely depend on the league's ability to navigate government regulations and more boardroom discussions but the current feeling is the same eight teams in 2025.
Two Different Start Dates
As for the 2025 season's kickoff, the UFL is currently considering two potential start dates: the weekends of March 1st or March 29th. While league officials seem to be leaning heavily towards the later March start date, the final decision is expected to be locked in by September at the latest. This will give teams and fans ample time to prepare for the upcoming season.
Head Coaches Pay
One of the behind-the-scenes discussions revolving around the UFL's new budget involves potential pay cuts for coaches. Some head coaches on the winning side of the league have already expressed concerns about returning in 2025 if their salaries are reduced.
Some of the head coaches are still in their second year of a two year contact. That could all change in 2025. However, it's important to note that these budget discussions are still in the preliminary stages, and alot can change between now and the start of the 2025 season. Something to keep an eye on in the off season.
Season Ticket Packages
Fans eagerly awaiting news about season ticket packages for the 2025 UFL season may not have to wait much longer. Word is that season ticket announcements could be coming any day now. However, the Michigan Panthers may be a notable exception, as their potential venue change could delay their ticket sales. It's important to note that this doesn't necessarily mean the Panthers won't be returning; it simply suggests they may be exploring new location options.
Everyone Is Really Happy
Despite the challenges and uncertainties that come with launching a new football league, sources indicate that everyone from FOX and RedBird Capital Partners is thrilled with the UFL's progress. Strong ratings and a solid foundation have stakeholders optimistic about the league's future, particularly with a full offseason to build upon the successes of the inaugural season.
Interestingly, there has been less chatter about the involvement of Dany Garcia and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, who were key players in the XFL's 2023 season. While they are still believed to be involved, their roles may have diminished compared to their previous stint with the XFL.
As the UFL's first season reaches its climax, it's clear that the league has a bright future ahead. With careful consideration being given to team locations, start dates, and financial sustainability, fans can expect much of the same but improvements across the board in 2025.
As always, we'd love to hear your thoughts on the league's plans for the future, so be sure to leave a comment and join the conversation!