St. Louis and its NFL History

By Jason Bolton February 14, 2024 01:14

Photo by Spectrum News/Brian McInnis

St. Louis, a city with a rich sports tradition, has a strong connection to football, particularly the National Football League (NFL). The city enjoyed a long-standing relationship with the NFL through the St. Louis Rams until the team's departure in 2016. The departure of the Rams left a void in the city's sports scene, and many argue that St. Louis deserves to have an NFL team back. Let's delve into the reasons why St. Louis deserves another NFL team.

Passionate Fan Base

St. Louis boasts a passionate and dedicated fan base that has demonstrated unwavering support for football. During the Rams' tenure in St. Louis, the city consistently ranked among the top in terms of attendance and viewership. The fans' loyalty was evident in their unwavering support for the team, even during challenging seasons. This unwavering dedication is a testament to the city's love for the sport and its willingness to support an NFL team.

Market Potential

St. Louis represents an attractive market for the NFL. As a major metropolitan area, the city offers a large and diverse fan base. The potential for strong ticket sales, merchandise revenue, and television viewership is substantial, making St. Louis an appealing location for an NFL franchise. The city's market potential is further bolstered by its history of supporting football and the presence of a solid fan base.

Economic Impact

The return of an NFL team to St. Louis could have a significant economic impact on the city and the surrounding region. A new team would create job opportunities, stimulate local businesses, and contribute to the growth of the city's economy. The presence of an NFL team can also elevate the city's profile, attracting more visitors and enhancing St. Louis' reputation as a sports destination. The economic benefits of hosting an NFL team can extend beyond the sports industry, benefiting various sectors of the local economy.

Stadium Infrastructure

St. Louis already possesses the infrastructure to support an NFL team. The city was home to the Edward Jones Dome, the former stadium of the St. Louis Rams. While the Rams' departure led to discussions about the future of the stadium, the existing infrastructure provides a foundation for a potential new team. With necessary renovations or the construction of a new stadium, St. Louis can offer a suitable venue for NFL games, ensuring a seamless transition for a new franchise.

Community Support

The return of an NFL team to St. Louis would not only reignite the city's football spirit but also foster a sense of community pride and unity. Sports have a unique ability to bring people together, and the presence of an NFL team can serve as a rallying point for the community. It can inspire local youth, create opportunities for charitable initiatives, and unite residents under a shared passion for football. The positive impact on the community's morale and spirit cannot be understated.

St. Louis undeniably deserves to have an NFL team back after losing the St. Louis Rams. The city's passionate fan base, market potential, economic impact, existing stadium infrastructure, and community support collectively make a compelling case for the return of an NFL franchise to St. Louis. The reintroduction of football to the city would not only fill the void left by the Rams' departure but also bring about numerous benefits for the city and its residents. St. Louis stands ready to embrace a new era of NFL football, and the league would undoubtedly thrive in this vibrant and football-loving community.