XFL names eight teams for winter 2020 season

The XFL on Wednesday announced the eight cities that will host franchises when the football league relaunches in February 2020.

The league, being revived after a failed single-season run in 2001, will play its games in Dallas (Globe Life Park), Houston (TDECU Stadium), Los Angeles (StubHub Center), St. Louis (Dome at America’s Center), Seattle (CenturyLink Field), Tampa (Raymond James Stadium), New York (MetLife Stadium) and Washington

(Audi Field).

Oliver Luck, the commissioner and CEO of the league, said the XFL made a request for proposals in May and heard from about 30 interested cities. That list was narrowed down to 18 or so over the summer and fall. Luck said the league expects to name coaches and team nicknames, logos and colours in the first quarter of next year.

He said each squad will likely sign a quarterback by next summer. Teams will feature 40-man rosters and players will be signed to year-round contracts, with salaries averaging around $75,000.

During its initial run in 2001, the league relied heavily on showbiz flare to market it as a football extension of the WWE wrestling brand. A lacklustre on-field product and plunging television ratings forced the league to fold operations after one season. This time, the league will opt for a more patient and polished approach to building its brand, according to Luck.