Kentucky May Be Getting a Pro Football Team — Finally
Pro football in Kentucky? Can you smell what the Rock is cooking? Believe it.
According to James Larsen of PFN, the United Football League (UFL) plans to expand to four new markets: Boise, Columbus, Florida, and Kentucky—likely in Louisville/Lexington. That split could mean a shared team name, or a shared stadium with both cities getting games. Or it could just mean the cities are close enough that they consider them both to be the same market. Either way, it is awesome news for a fan base who lacks a lot of options in pro teams to root for.
This could be a huge moment. Kentucky has long been one of the largest states with no major pro teams. No NFL. No NBA. No NHL. No MLS. Even Cincinnati’s teams, while close, don’t really count for most Kentuckians. The closest thing to a “pro” team might be the Lexington Legends or Lexington SC. of the USL. They did recently release some awesome new home kits inspired by the icecicle jersey's Kentucky basketball wore.
The UFL isn’t the NFL, but it’s not nothing. Spring football is finding its niche. Leagues like the XFL and USFL have merged, and with proper marketing, Kentucky could be the perfect test market.
Fans here are already football-obsessed. Kroger Field sells out. High school football dominates Fridays. With the right ownership group and regional branding, this team could carve out a loyal fanbase quickly.
The state has proven it will support pro-caliber sports—just look at the buzz surrounding Will Levis, Benny Snell, or the NFL Draft.
And for young players looking for a second chance? What better spot than football-mad Kentucky?
The UFL may not be a headline-stealer, but for Kentucky fans starved for pro sports, it could be the start of something real. Watch this space.