ST LOUIS, MISSOURI - JUNE 14: Bryce Perkins #3 of Michigan Panthers passes the ball under pressure from Momo Sanogo #11 of DC Defenders during the second quarter of the UFL Championship game at The Dome at America’s Center on June 14, 2025 in St Loui …
DETROIT (FOX 2) - The Michigan Panthers may soon be leaving the state, according to reports.
Citing multiple sources, Pro Football Newsroom (PFN) reported Tuesday that the United Football League (UFL) plans to relocate the entire USFL Conference for the 2026 season. This includes markets in Michigan, Houston, Birmingham, Ala., and Memphis, Tenn.
As these teams leave, Boise, Idaho, Columbus, Ohio, Kentucky, and Florida are expected to get teams, per reports.
According to the report, this shakeup comes after game attendance was down in all markets besides Michigan. TV ratings also decreased, according to PFN.
What they're saying:
After the reports that the teams are leaving, football reporter Mike Mitchell said the UFL provided a statement that said the league is planning for the next season, but did not confirm nor deny the rumors. It said, in part, "At this point, we have nothing to report on any unauthorized speculation."
The Source: Reports from Pro Football Newsroom and football writer Mike Mitchell were used to write this story.
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