NFL Team That No Longer Exists

By Jason Bolton January 14, 2024 20:50

The National Football League (NFL) has a rich history with several teams that have come and gone over the years. One such team that no longer exists is the Portsmouth Spartans, who were later rebranded as the Detroit Lions.

The Portsmouth Spartans

The Portsmouth Spartans were founded in 1929 in Portsmouth, Ohio, and they quickly became a competitive team in the NFL. The Spartans' early years were marked by moderate success, and they were known for their tough and physical style of play. However, due to financial struggles and a small local fan base, the team faced numerous challenges.

Relocation to Detroit

In 1934, due to financial difficulties, the team was purchased and moved to Detroit, Michigan. The relocation was a significant turning point for the franchise, as it marked the beginning of a new era for the team.

Rebranding as the Detroit Lions

After the move to Detroit, the team was rebranded as the Detroit Lions. The new name and identity signaled a fresh start for the franchise, and it also symbolized the team's resilience and determination to succeed in a new market.

Legacy of the Portsmouth Spartans

Although the Portsmouth Spartans no longer exist as an NFL team, their legacy lives on through the Detroit Lions. The spirit and history of the Spartans are still cherished by football enthusiasts, and the team's impact on the NFL's early years is recognized and celebrated.

Other Defunct NFL Teams

While the Portsmouth Spartans/Detroit Lions transformation is a notable example of a team no longer existing, there are several other defunct NFL teams that have left their mark on the league's history. Some of these teams include:

Duluth Eskimos: The Duluth Eskimos were a short-lived NFL team based in Duluth, Minnesota. They played in the league from 1923 to 1927 before financial difficulties led to their demise.
Pottsville Maroons: The Pottsville Maroons were a professional football team based in Pottsville, Pennsylvania. They were active in the NFL from 1925 to 1928, and their controversial suspension by the league in 1925 is a notable event in NFL history.
Frankford Yellow Jackets: The Frankford Yellow Jackets were originally based in Frankford, Philadelphia. They were a prominent team in the NFL during the 1920s and 1930s before financial troubles forced the team to cease operations in 1931.
Canton Bulldogs: The Canton Bulldogs were one of the early powerhouses of professional football. They were based in Canton, Ohio, and played in the NFL from 1920 to 1926. Despite their success, the team disbanded due to financial issues.

The story of the Portsmouth Spartans and their transformation into the Detroit Lions serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of the NFL. While some teams may no longer exist in their original form, their contributions to the league's history endure through the memories, traditions, and impact they left behind. The legacy of these defunct teams continues to be an integral part of the NFL's rich tapestry, honoring the past while celebrating the present and future of professional football.