The NFL is undoubtedly one of the most popular professional sports leagues in the world, yet countless passionate football cities across the US and beyond still lack a team to call their own. With new franchises on the horizon, we’ve compiled a list of 10 cities that truly deserve consideration for NFL expansion.
San Antonio, Texas
As the seventh-largest city in the US, San Antonio stands out as a prime NFL expansion location. The city boasts a thriving sports culture, a dedicated fan base, and the Alamodome, which is game-day-ready. All signs point to San Antonio being more than capable of hosting a professional football team.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
With college football woven into its roots, Oklahoma City has a hunger for the sports that rivals the biggest cities. The success of the NBA’s Thunder proves the town can support a professional team. Passionate football fans and potential venues, OKC is well-positioned for NFL expansion.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City is a sports-loving city that already supports the NBA’s Jazz and MLS’s Real Salt Lake. Its rapid growth and devotion to college football make it a logical choice for NFL expansion, especially with the state’s interest in building a football-friendly stadium.
San Diego, California
After losing the Chargers to Los Angeles, San Diego remains hungry for a football team. With a large population, a beautiful climate, and a deep sports culture, this coastal city is ready to bring back NFL action and rekindle its football fan base.
Austin, Texas
As one of the fastest-growing cities in the US, Austin has a strong economy and a vibrant sports scene. The University of Texas already brings massive crowds for football, and the city’s booming population makes it a prime location for an NFL expansion team.
St. Louis, Missouri
Despite the Rams’ move to Los Angeles, St. Louis remains a city full of loyal football fans. The city’s strong football legacy, existing infrastructure, and large metro population make it a top contender for another NFL franchise and it deserves a second chance at hosting a team.
Louisville, Kentucky
A city where sports passion runs deep, Louisville boasts a loyal fan base, especially for college football and basketball. Thanks to the city’s excitement around the University of Louisville’s athletic success and its rich sports culture, an NFL team could find instant support here.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Though Las Vegas recently acquired the Raiders, it is one of the fastest-growing sports markets. Given the city’s growing population, booming tourism industry, and support for professional teams, it can support a second NFL franchise in the future.
London, England
London has been hosting NFL games for years and consistently sells out Wembley and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The city’s massive population and fan base for American football make it a prime candidate for international expansion. An NFL team in London would give the league a permanent global presence.
Raleigh, North Carolina
Raleigh and the Research Triangle area are a rapidly growing metro with a strong sports culture. Home to major college sports and the NHL’s Hurricanes, this city has the infrastructure and fan enthusiasm to support an NFL team, filling a football void in the Carolinas.
