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The National Football League (NFL) stands as a cornerstone of American sports culture, captivating fans across the nation with its thrilling matchups and iconic teams. However, it may come as a surprise that there are 28 states without an NFL franchise. In these states, football fandom takes on a unique character, shaped by regional allegiances and creative connections to teams from neighboring states.
Residents in these NFL-less states often find themselves adopting nearby teams as their own, forging strong bonds with franchises like the Seattle Seahawks or the Kansas City Chiefs. This phenomenon highlights the resilience and adaptability of football fandom, showcasing how fans across the country unite behind their favorite teams, regardless of geographic proximity.
Moreover, the absence of NFL teams fosters a spirit of community and creativity among local sports enthusiasts. Whether it's organizing watch parties for televised games or participating in amateur leagues, fans in these states demonstrate a deep-seated passion for the sport, even in the absence of a local team. This grassroots approach to football underscores the universal appeal and enduring popularity of the NFL, transcending state borders and uniting fans in a shared love for the game.
State | States Without NFL Teams | Additional Details |
---|---|---|
California | 3 | |
Florida | 3 | |
New York | 3 | It could be argued that New York has only one team, the Buffalo Bills, because the Jets and Giants b... |
Ohio | 2 | |
Pennsylvania | 2 | |
Texas | 2 | |
Arizona | 1 | |
Colorado | 1 | |
District of Columbia | 1 | While the Washington Commanders claim DC as their home city, the team's HQ and training facility are... |
Georgia | 1 | |
Illinois | 1 | |
Indiana | 1 | |
Louisiana | 1 | |
Maryland | 1 | In addition to the Baltimore Ravens, Maryland is also the site of the Washington Commanders' home st... |
Massachusetts | 1 | |
Michigan | 1 | |
Minnesota | 1 | |
Missouri | 1 | |
Nevada | 1 | |
North Carolina | 1 | |
Tennessee | 1 | |
Washington | 1 | |
Wisconsin | 1 | |
Alabama | 0 | |
Alaska | 0 | |
Arkansas | 0 | |
Connecticut | 0 | |
Delaware | 0 | |
Hawaii | 0 | |
Idaho | 0 | |
Iowa | 0 | |
Kansas | 0 | Though beloved in Kansas, the Chiefs are technically located in Kansas City, Missouri. |
Kentucky | 0 | |
Maine | 0 | |
Mississippi | 0 | |
Montana | 0 | |
Nebraska | 0 | |
New Hampshire | 0 | |
New Jersey | 0 | Although the Jets and Giants both have their home stadiums and headquarters in New Jersey, both are ... |
New Mexico | 0 | |
North Dakota | 0 | |
Oklahoma | 0 | |
Oregon | 0 | |
Rhode Island | 0 | |
South Carolina | 0 | |
South Dakota | 0 | |
Utah | 0 | |
Vermont | 0 | |
Virginia | 0 | While Virginia lacks a Virginia-themed team, it is the site of the Washington Commanders' HQ and pra... |
West Virginia | 0 | |
Wyoming | 0 |