The NFL is a billion-dollar machine with die-hard fans in every corner of the country (and beyond). But for some reason, plenty of football-hungry cities are still without a team to call their own.
Whether it’s passionate fans, booming populations, or just cool vibes, these cities deserve a spot on the NFL map — yesterday. Here are 10 cities that are ready for kickoff.
10. Portland, Oregon
Portland has the weirdness, the coffee, and the rabid sports culture to support a team. Plus, Seahawks fans could use a little local rivalry to spice things up.
9. San Antonio, Texas
Texas lives and breathes football, so how does its second-biggest city not have a team? San Antonio is ready to bring BBQ, swagger, and a sea of jerseys to Sundays.
8. Toronto, Canada
Toronto has everything — a massive fan base, an elite sports culture, and poutine. It’s time the NFL added some international flair north of the border.
7. St. Louis, Missouri
The Rams left, but the fans never really did. St. Louis deserves a redemption arc and a new team to root for (without needing therapy this time).
6. Louisville, Kentucky
College football is king here, but an NFL team would take things to the next level. Imagine bourbon-fueled tailgates and Sundays full of bluegrass and touchdowns.
5. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
They already proved they can support a pro team with the Thunder. A football team would round things out and give OKC another reason to go all in.
4. Columbus, Ohio
Ohio is football country, and Columbus is already buzzing every Saturday thanks to the Buckeyes. Give these fans a reason to keep tailgating on Sundays too.
3. Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake quietly has one of the fastest-growing populations in the U.S. The stadium would be full, the scenery would be stunning, and the vibes would be immaculate.
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2. Memphis, Tennessee
Nashville can’t have all the fun — Memphis wants in on the football action too. The city’s gritty, passionate, and ready to turn up the volume on game day.
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1. Austin, Texas
It’s one of the fastest-growing cities in the country and already packed with football fans. If any place is ready for an NFL franchise with big energy and weird uniforms, it’s Austin.
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