NFL franchise moves and mergers

The history of NFL franchise moves and mergers involves several teams within the National Football League that have relocated to different cities or merged with other teams due to various reasons such as financial difficulties, stadium issues, or market considerations. This article provides a detailed overview of significant moves and mergers in the history of the NFL.

Early History

The NFL, established in 1920 as the American Professional Football Association, saw numerous teams come and go in its early years. Teams were often unstable, and franchise moves were common. One of the earliest significant moves was the Decatur Staleys (now known as the Chicago Bears) relocating to Chicago in 1921.

Notable NFL Franchise Moves

Baltimore Colts to Indianapolis

In 1984, one of the most controversial moves occurred when the Baltimore Colts relocated to Indianapolis. The move was made under the cover of darkness to avoid legal issues, deeply affecting the Baltimore fan base.

Cleveland Browns to Baltimore

The Cleveland Browns' move in 1996 was another significant and controversial relocation. Owner Art Modell moved the team to Baltimore, where they became the Baltimore Ravens. The Browns were later reactivated in 1999 as a new franchise but retained the history and records of the original Browns.

St. Louis Rams to Los Angeles

The St. Louis Rams moved back to Los Angeles in 2016, having originally moved from Los Angeles to St. Louis in 1995. This return was part of a larger NFL effort to have a presence in the lucrative Los Angeles market.

San Diego Chargers to Los Angeles

Following the Rams, the San Diego Chargers also moved to Los Angeles in 2017, becoming the Los Angeles Chargers. This move ended a 56-year stint in San Diego, prompted by the failure to secure a new stadium deal.

Oakland Raiders to Las Vegas

The Oakland Raiders' move to Las Vegas in 2020 marked another significant franchise relocation. The team had previously moved from Oakland to Los Angeles in 1982, then back to Oakland in 1995, before finally settling in Las Vegas.

NFL Mergers

The most notable merger in NFL history is not a merger of teams, but of leagues. In 1970, the NFL merged with the American Football League (AFL), which led to the creation of the current conference system and the establishment of the Super Bowl as the championship game.

Impact of Moves and Mergers

Franchise moves and mergers have significant impacts on the fan bases and the cities involved. They can lead to legal battles, economic changes, and emotional responses from fans who often have deep ties to their teams.

See Also

• History of the NFL
• Super Bowl
• American Football League