Additional information has emerged about the upcoming merger of the XFL and USFL, resulting in the creation of a second league called the United Football League. This newly rebranded league is set to launch on March 30, 2024, and will consist of eight teams, playing a 10-game season.

While each of the two winter-spring leagues in 2023 had eight teams, the new UFL will see half of the total franchises ceasing operations. Financial issues have historically plagued spring football leagues in the United States, leading to the downfall of several leagues in the past. Given this history, it is no surprise that the new league has chosen to limit the total number of teams.

The launch date of March 30 falls between the starting points of the XFL and USFL in 2023. The XFL officially returned in February, while the USFL’s second season began in April of last year. The decision to merge came after the XFL’s third attempt failed financially, and the USFL showed interest in a merger shortly after its latest season. Five XFL teams and three USFL clubs will transition to the new UFL.

• Arlington Renegades
• Birmingham Stallions
• D.C. Defenders
• Houston Roughnecks
• Memphis Showboats
• Michigan Panthers
• San Antonio Brahmas
• St. Louis Battlehawks

Notably, the Houston team will keep its XFL moniker but use the USFL’s head coach, Curtis Johnson. Additionally, four XFL head coaches and four USFL head coaches will remain with the new UFL. The league’s head coaches include former NFL figures and longtime college coaches.

While the UFL will keep spring football alive in the U.S., the decrease in total teams from 16 to 8 will reduce opportunities for players. Despite this, several XFL and USFL alums went on to join NFL training camps. The league has already gained approval from federal regulators, and training camp is set to commence in Arlington in February.

Games will be televised on major networks, including ABC, FOX, ESPN, and FS1.