When it comes to indoor football, many fans frequently ask one burning question: HOW MANY TEAMS ARE IN ARENA FOOTBALL LEAGUE? Since the league has evolved over time with changes in teams and structure, understanding the current lineup requires a deeper dive. In this comprehensive guide, we break down the current team counts, the league’s format, and key insights every fan should know.
WHAT IS THE ARENA FOOTBALL LEAGUE?
The Arena Football League (AFL) was founded in 1987 as a fast-paced, indoor variation of American football. Unlike traditional football, arena football fields are smaller, and the action speeds up. This league became notable for high-scoring games and fan-friendly experiences. Over the decades, the AFL has experienced various expansions, contractions, and hiatus periods, making the total number of teams a dynamic figure.
HOW MANY TEAMS ARE IN ARENA FOOTBALL LEAGUE CURRENTLY?
As of the most recent 2019 season—the AFL’s last active year before ceasing operations—the league featured six teams. These teams were:
1. Albany Empire
2. Baltimore Brigade
3. Atlantic City Blackjacks
4. Columbus Destroyers
5. Philadelphia Soul
6. Washington Valor
However, the AFL ceased operations in late 2019 and filed for bankruptcy in 2020. A revived version, called NAL (National Arena League) and other leagues also operate but are distinct from the original AFL. This makes the exact count a bit confusing for casual fans.
Interesting FACT: At its peak, the AFL had up to 19 active teams during some seasons. The fluctuation was driven by financial challenges and market interest (Source: Arena Football League Historical Archive).
LSI KEYWORDS INSIDE THE CONTENT
Some related terms that will help answer more detailed questions and improve your understanding are: arena football teams list, arena football league franchises, indoor football league teams, arena league team history, AFL team count.
ARENA FOOTBALL LEAGUE VS NATIONAL ARENA LEAGUE TEAMS COMPARISON
| Feature | Arena Football League (AFL) | National Arena League (NAL) |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Teams (Most Recent Season) | 6 (2019 season) | 7 (2023 season) |
| League Status | Ceased Operations 2019 | Active |
| Field Size | 50 yards | 50 yards |
| Play Style | High-scoring, fast-paced | Similar indoor football rules |
| Year Founded | 1987 | 2016 |
HOW HAS THE NUMBER OF TEAMS CHANGED OVER TIME?
The league’s volatile history explains the changes in team count. Starting small with just a few teams in 1987, it expanded rapidly in the 1990s. However, financial instability caused many franchises to fold or relocate. For instance, from 2010 to 2015, the league averaged 12 teams per season, shrinking to 6 by 2019. This reduced number reflected market consolidation and operational challenges.
Based on my experience working with sports analysts and following arena football closely, this instability is common in niche sports leagues. Factors like venue costs, sponsorships, and TV deals heavily influence team viability.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN AFL AND OTHER ARENA FOOTBALL LEAGUES
While you might see different indoor leagues, the term “Arena Football League” specifically refers to the historical AFL. Other leagues, like the Indoor Football League (IFL) and National Arena League (NAL), operate separately, with different team counts.
This causes confusion in counting how many teams compete “in the arena football league” since many fans refer generically to all indoor football leagues. As of now, only the NAL is active with seven teams, the AFL is defunct, while the IFL has over 14 teams under an alternative format.
STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO FIND THE CURRENT NUMBER OF ARENA FOOTBALL TEAMS
1. Identify the league: Confirm if you’re looking for AFL specifically or other arena football leagues, such as NAL or IFL.
2. Check official league websites: Visit current league websites for updated team rosters and news.
3. Look for latest season rosters: Teams frequently change year-to-year, so check the most recent seasonal lineup.
4. Review league news for franchise changes: Announcements of expansion or contraction can affect team counts rapidly.
5. Cross-reference sports news sites or databases: Verify info from trusted sources like ESPN, ArenaFan, or official league social channels.
WARNING: COMMON MISUNDERSTANDINGS ABOUT ARENA FOOTBALL TEAMS
Many people mistakenly think the AFL is still fully operational, not realizing it’s been inactive since 2019. Others confuse AFL teams with NAL or IFL franchises, leading to overstated team numbers. Be cautious when using third-party sports websites, as some may not update their data frequently.
Moreover, some lists might include defunct or announced but never realized expansion teams. Always confirm with the latest official communications.
CONCLUSION AND FINAL THOUGHTS ON TEAM COUNTS
In summary, answering the question HOW MANY TEAMS ARE IN ARENA FOOTBALL LEAGUE depends on the timeframe and league you reference. The true AFL, the historic and original league, had six teams in its final 2019 season before ceasing operations.
If you expand your scope to other indoor football leagues currently active, team numbers vary but generally are in the range of 6 to 14 depending on the league.
Overall, the dynamic nature of arena football teams requires ongoing attention to official league sources for the most accurate and timely information.
CHECKLIST FOR VERIFYING CURRENT ARENA FOOTBALL TEAM COUNT
– Confirm the specific league (AFL, NAL, IFL) you are researching
– Visit the official league website or verified social media accounts
– Review the latest season roster and team announcements
– Watch for news on team expansions, relocations, or folding
– Cross-verify data with reputable sports news outlets
– Be aware of defunct franchises and exclude them from current counts
– Note differences between indoor football leagues to avoid confusion
By following this expert guide, you will reliably know HOW MANY TEAMS ARE IN ARENA FOOTBALL LEAGUE or related indoor football organizations. Keep checking regularly, as this landscape can shift quickly with the exciting dynamics of arena football.
