what states don't have an nfl team

2 min read 08-02-2025

The NFL is a hugely popular league, but not every state gets to enjoy having a team nearby. This comprehensive guide explores which states currently lack an NFL franchise and delves into some of the reasons behind this geographical imbalance. For fans in these states, the question "What states don't have an NFL team?" is a relevant one, impacting gameday experiences and team loyalty.

States Without NFL Teams: The Complete List

Currently, the following states do not have a National Football League team:

Alaska
Delaware
Hawaii
Idaho
Iowa
Montana
Nebraska
New Hampshire
New Mexico
North Dakota
Rhode Island
South Dakota
Vermont
West Virginia
Wyoming

This list represents a significant portion of the United States. For many residents, attending an NFL game requires significant travel. The absence of local NFL teams has implications for local economies, sports culture, and community engagement.

Why Do Some States Lack NFL Teams?

Several factors contribute to the uneven distribution of NFL teams across the United States. These include:

1. Population Density and Market Size:

The NFL prioritizes large metropolitan areas with significant populations and substantial spending power. States lacking major cities or with smaller overall populations often find themselves outside the league's immediate expansion plans. This is a major factor explaining why many smaller states lack NFL representation.

2. Stadium Availability and Funding:

Building and maintaining a state-of-the-art NFL stadium requires considerable investment. Securing public funding for stadium construction can be a significant hurdle, especially in states with limited resources or competing priorities. The financial commitment is a serious deterrent for many areas.

3. Television Market Size and Revenue:

The NFL's revenue streams are significantly influenced by television broadcasting rights. States with smaller television markets may be less attractive to NFL owners seeking maximum profitability. Broadcasting deals are a vital piece of the NFL's economic puzzle.

4. Competition from Other Sports Leagues:

The presence of strong local teams in other professional sports leagues (e.g., NBA, MLB) can sometimes lessen the demand for an NFL team. Competition for fan interest and sponsorship dollars plays a role in the NFL's expansion decisions. A strong local fanbase for another sport can be a complicating factor.

5. Geographic Location and Logistics:

Travel distances for fans and teams are also considerations. States located far from other NFL markets might be less appealing to the league due to logistical challenges and reduced fan accessibility. Game scheduling, team travel, and fan convenience are all part of the equation.

The Future of NFL Expansion

While it's difficult to predict the future of NFL expansion, several factors could potentially change the landscape. Growth in certain states, the construction of new stadiums, and shifts in the television market may influence the league's decision-making. For fans in states without a team, this remains a topic of ongoing discussion and hopeful anticipation.

Conclusion: The NFL Landscape and its Gaps

The absence of NFL teams in these 15 states highlights the complexities of professional sports franchise distribution. While these states may lack an NFL team at the moment, the possibility of future expansion remains. The factors outlined above will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the future of the NFL's geographical footprint. For fans in those states without NFL teams, the hope of local NFL action persists.