The United Football League is stepping into a fresh phase this year, and the updates are hard to ignore. The league is adding new teams, changing some team names, and adjusting where games will be played.
These moves are set to reshape how spring football looks and feels for fans across the country.
Three new cities are joining the action: Columbus, Louisville, and Orlando.
At the same time, a few familiar teams are getting new names and moving to different stadiums. These updates aim to bring teams closer to their local communities and create a better game-day setting.
In this blog, I’ll share the full list of UFL teams, explain what has changed, and highlight where each team will play this season.
I’ll also break down why the league is choosing smaller stadiums and what it could mean for fans.
About the United Football League
The United Football League (UFL) is a professional spring football league in the United States.
It was created after the merger of the XFL and the USFL, bringing teams from both leagues together under one brand.
The league gives fans a chance to watch football after the NFL season ends.
The UFL currently features eight teams based in different cities. Each team plays a regular season schedule, followed by playoffs to decide the champion.
The league focuses on simple rules, fast games, and fair competition.
Many players use the UFL to prove their skills and work toward bigger opportunities. The league also aims to build strong support in each city by choosing the right stadiums and markets.
Overall, the UFL is focused on steady growth and keeping spring football active for fans across the country.
Complete List of UFL Teams This Year
As of this year, the United Football League will feature eight teams. The lineup includes three new franchises, two rebranded teams, and three clubs that remain unchanged from previous seasons.
1. Columbus Aviators
The Columbus Aviators are one of the newest teams in the league. Based in Columbus, Ohio, the team is focused on building strong local support from the start.
The Aviators aim to create a clear identity through fast offense and disciplined defense.
Coaches are working to develop young players and build team chemistry early in the season.
As a fresh franchise, they are also shaping new traditions for fans. Their addition helps expand the UFL’s presence in the Midwest and adds fresh competition to the league.
2. Louisville Kings
The Louisville Kings represent Louisville, Kentucky, and are another recent addition to the league.
The team hopes to build a loyal fan base by delivering steady and competitive spring football. The Kings focus on balanced play, mixing a controlled passing game with a solid running attack.
Coaches are placing strong attention on teamwork and player growth. Louisville has a deep sports culture, which gives the team room to grow quickly.
With strong local backing, the Kings aim to become a steady contender in the UFL.
3. Orlando Storm
The Orlando Storm brings UFL football to Orlando, Florida. The team is built around speed and aggressive play on both sides of the ball.
With Florida known for producing football talent, the Storm have access to strong players and fan interest.
The coaching staff focuses on quick offensive drives and sharp defensive adjustments. As a new franchise, they are working to create strong team unity and consistent results.
Their presence strengthens the league’s reach in the Southeast and adds fresh energy to the schedule.
4. Houston Gamblers
The Houston Gamblers are one of the more recognized names in spring football. Based in Houston, Texas, the team carries history from earlier leagues and continues to build on that foundation.
The Gamblers focus on a powerful running game and steady defensive structure.
Houston’s large sports market gives the team strong exposure and fan potential. Coaches emphasize discipline, smart play calling, and consistency each week.
The franchise aims to stay competitive while adapting to the current UFL format and goals.
5. Dallas Renegades
The Dallas Renegades represent Dallas, Texas, and bring strong competition to the league.
The team is known for physical play and an aggressive mindset on the field. Coaches focus on building depth across the roster to handle the full season schedule.
Dallas has a rich football culture, which supports the team’s growth and attendance.
The Renegades aim to stay consistent and compete for playoff spots every year. Their strong presence keeps Texas a key region in the UFL.
6. D.C. Defenders
The D.C. Defenders play in Washington, D.C., and have built one of the most active fan bases in the league.
The team is known for high-energy games and tough defensive units. Over recent seasons, the Defenders have shown steady performance and solid leadership.
Home games often bring loud crowds and strong local support. The coaching staff values discipline and structured game plans.
Their ability to stay competitive year after year makes them one of the most respected teams in the UFL.
7. Birmingham Stallions
The Birmingham Stallions are based in Birmingham, Alabama, and have earned a strong reputation in spring football.
They focus on balanced offense, steady quarterback play, and dependable defense. The Stallions have built a winning culture that attracts loyal fans and experienced players.
Birmingham has embraced the team, turning home games into major local events.
Strong coaching and consistent performance have helped them remain serious contenders. Their steady approach makes them one of the top teams to watch each season.
8. St. Louis Battlehawks
The St. Louis Battlehawks represent St. Louis, Missouri, and are known for passionate fan support.
The team plays with high intensity and strong teamwork on the field. St. Louis fans regularly fill the stadium, creating one of the best home atmospheres in the league.
The Battlehawks focus on aggressive defense and quick scoring drives. Coaches emphasize unity and steady improvement throughout the season.
Their strong bond with the city has made them one of the most recognized and supported teams in the UFL.
UFL Team and Stadium Changes for This Season
One of the most important trends in this season is the league’s shift toward smaller venues. Five of the eight UFL teams will play in soccer-specific stadiums with capacities of 25,000 or fewer.
| Team | City | Stadium | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Columbus Aviators | Columbus | Historic Crew Stadium | 20,000 |
| Louisville Kings | Louisville | Lynn Family Stadium | 11,700 |
| Orlando Storm | Orlando | Inter & Co. Stadium | 25,500 |
| Houston Gamblers | Houston | Shell Energy Stadium | 20,000 |
| Dallas Renegades | Dallas | Toyota Stadium | 20,005 |
| D.C. Defenders | Washington, D.C. | Audi Field | 20,000 |
| Birmingham Stallions | Birmingham | Protective Stadium | 47,100 |
| St. Louis Battlehawks | St. Louis | The Dome at America’s Center | 67,300 |
Why the United Football League Is Moving to Smaller Stadiums?
The United Football League is moving to smaller stadiums for clear and practical reasons. Smaller venues cost less to operate, which helps the league control expenses.
When a stadium fits the crowd size, games feel more active and engaging.
I once attended a spring football game in a smaller venue, and the energy felt stronger because the crowd was closer to the field.
Fans could clearly hear the hits and player calls, which made the experience more exciting.
Players also seemed more connected to the audience. The league wants steady growth, not large stadiums with too many empty seats.
Right-sized venues help the UFL build local support and make it easier to manage.
This move supports long-term stability while improving the overall fan experience. It is a simple plan focused on smart spending and a stronger community connection.
Conclusion
The United Football League is clearly entering a new chapter, and this season feels like a turning point.
With new teams in Columbus, Louisville, and Orlando, along with updated names and stadium moves, the league is taking real steps toward long-term growth.
Smaller venues, stronger local ties, and focused expansion show that the UFL is thinking about stability as much as excitement.
If you follow spring football, this is a season worth paying attention to.
The team changes, new cities, and stadium shifts could shape the league’s future in big ways.
Now I’d like to hear from you. Which UFL team are you most excited about this year? Have you attended a game in one of the newer stadiums?
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below and join the conversation.
