Welcome, football fans! If you’re new to the United Football League (UFL), there’s a lot of excitement on the horizon as we head into the 2025 season. Whether you’re drawn in by the promise of high-stakes football or the chance to see your favorite teams and players in action, we’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know about the UFL as it enters its second year.

What is the UFL?

The United Football League is a professional American football league that debuted in March 2024. It was formed through the merger of the latest versions of the XFL and the United States Football League (USFL). The UFL combines the best elements of these two leagues, featuring eight teams concentrated in the Midwest and Southern United States.

What’s New in 2025?

As the UFL gears up for its 2025 season, here are some key updates and what you can look forward to:

1. Returning Teams and No Expansion
   The UFL will maintain its current lineup of eight teams and markets from the 2024 season. The Birmingham Stallions, who won the inaugural UFL title, will return to defend their championship. The other seven teams will be looking to unseat them and claim the top spot. This stability is intended to help the league build on its first season’s successes.
2. A Traditional Offseason Calendar
   One of the key changes for 2025 is a return to a traditional offseason calendar. According to Daryl Johnston, UFL’s executive vice president of football operations, this adjustment will allow teams to plan better and be more prepared. The league aims to enhance the overall quality of play and streamline operations.
3. Improving Attendance
   While the St. Louis Battlehawks had an impressive average attendance of over 34,000 fans per game, the other seven markets averaged around 10,000. One of the goals for the 2025 season is to boost attendance across these markets by enhancing fan engagement and local outreach.
4. Preseason and Regular Season Structure
   The UFL will continue to operate with two conferences—the USFL Conference and the XFL Conference. Each team will play a ten-game schedule with no bye weeks. They will face each conference rival twice (home and away) and each team from the other conference once. However, due to conflicts with the Alamodome, the San Antonio Brahmas will host only four home games, with some games relocated to St. Louis.
5. Postseason Format
   The postseason will feature the top two teams from each conference. The winners of the XFL Championship Game and the USFL Championship Game will advance to the UFL Championship Game, held at a neutral site chosen based on fan support and attendance.
6. Television and Media Coverage
   UFL games will be broadcast on Fox and ESPN. The league is under its third season of a five-year TV deal with these networks. Expect some games to be scheduled on Friday nights to fill programming gaps and accommodate other sports deals.
7. Player Representation and Coaching Updates
   The UFL is undergoing changes in player representation. The United Steelworkers will no longer represent the league’s players, and there’s a recommendation to affiliate with another established union. Additionally, coaching contracts are being adjusted, with some coaches coming from the XFL facing new terms. Notably, Arlington’s Bob Stoops, St. Louis’s Anthony Becht, and DC’s Reggie Barlow are among those whose futures may be impacted by these changes.

How to Get Involved

As a new fan, there are several ways you can dive into the UFL experience:

• Follow the League: Keep up with the latest news, scores, and updates through the UFL’s official website and social media channels.
• Attend Games: Check out the schedule and find out when the UFL will be in a city near you. Experience the excitement of live football!
• Join the Community: Engage with other fans through forums and social media groups. Share your enthusiasm and participate in discussions about the league.

Final Thoughts

The UFL’s 2025 season promises to build on the momentum of its inaugural year, with an emphasis on improving fan engagement, enhancing the quality of play, and providing a more stable and exciting football experience. Whether you’re a seasoned football fan or new to the sport, there’s something for everyone in the UFL. Welcome aboard, and get ready for an incredible season of football!

Feel free to share this guide with fellow fans and help spread the word about the UFL’s upcoming season. Here’s to a fantastic 2025!