XFL Shuts Down Its Season


As has been the case with all sports in the United States this week, the XFL has suspended play. The spring football league which just reached the half-way point in its first season announced that it won’t resume play this year, but hopes to get in a full season in 2021.

The league’s statement, posted to its Website at www.xfl.com reads: “Currently, the XFL will not be playing its regular-season games. However, all players will be paid their base pay and benefits for the 2020 regular season. All XFL ticket holders will be issued refunds or credit toward future games. The XFL is committed to playing a full season in 2021 and future years.”

In addition, after passing exit physicals and interviews, the league has given its players permission to sign with teams in other leagues immediately. With the new NFL Year set to begin on Wednesday, March 18, it’s possible that some of the league’s stars will get a chance on the NFL stage in the next few weeks.

The marks the second year in a row a new Spring Football League as launched just after the end of the NFL Season and failed to complete its own first season. Last year the Association of American Football (AAF) ran out of funds and disbanded. This feels different, as the XFL was going strong, putting out a solid product and had a strong infrastructure in place. Like other sports in 2020, this just feels like some bad timing. And, hopefully, the XFL will be back and stronger in 2021 as they allude to in the official statement.
The disappointment here is that a team like the Houston Roughnecks, currently undefeated and looking strong, don’t get a chance to finish the season out. With players like P.J. Walker and Cam Phillips looking like stars, it’s quite possible several land on NFL squads, meaning we won’t get to see them make a run again in 2021, either.

With the season over, it’s a chance to reflect on what worked well with the XFL. Here’s a few things I enjoyed about the experience, and what makes me excited to see it continue:
  • The immediate sideline interviews. It was fun, and sometimes awkward, to get immediate reactions. But it put you in the middle of the action, creating a unique fan experience.
  • A window into the officiating process. This league was about transparency and getting the fans in on the process, and that included officiating. And it was exciting to see the league take immediate responsibility and action when things didn’t go as they should. That’s a direct contrast to the frustrations many fans have felt about the NFL.
  • Strong on-field product. The games were mostly interesting and compelling, and the rule changes that included possible nine-point plays, a new kick-off and faster play made the on-field product unique and compelling. I’m just disappointed we didn’t get to see the alternative overtime rules.
While I’m disappointed we didn’t get to see the full season, I enjoyed the XFL and I’m actually excited to see it continue. What did you enjoy about the XFL and what will you miss? Share your thoughts on season one in the comments.

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