It’s nearly a new year and many are anxiously waiting for news on the pending merger between the USFL and XFL. Since the two leagues put out a joint statement in September the rumor mill has gone wild. The latest scenario making the rounds would see an 8-team league in 2024, comprised of four USFL teams and four from the XFL.
In regards to locations, there’s a lot of eyes on the Houston market as they’re the only city with two teams.
A new story is making the rounds that could add fuel to the speculation fire. James Larsen reports that San Antonio Brahmas head coach Hines Ward is exiting the new league. Additionally, Houston Roughnecks head coach Wade Phillips could be tapped as his replacement.
BREAKING: In another turn of events, the San Antonio Brahmas have a new coach.
Per sources, Hines Ward is out. Wade Phillips, formerly with the @XFLRoughnecks, is lined up to take over as Head Coach of the @XFLBrahmas.
Another bizarre twist in the #USFL–#XFL merger. #UFL pic.twitter.com/ZesHv5T3C1
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) December 28, 2023
This is especially interesting because Hines Ward has been an active coach for the XFL. In fact, he was recently at a fan engagement event for the San Antonio Brahmas talking about his plans for the next season.
Ward had a rough start to his head coaching career, ending the season with a record if 3-7 last year.
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Wade Phillips on the otherhand was a fan favorite in Houston, and he had a solid record to match. Phillips led the Roughnecks to a 7-3 campaign, only to lose out to the Arlington Renegades in the XFL Playoffs.
If Phillips does make the move to San Antonio, it sounds like his coaching staff would move along with him.
This would seem to be an indicator that the Roughnecks branding may not survive the merger, but we’ve heard multiple sceanrios on that front. We would not be surprised if the Houston Roughnecks brand makes the cut in 2024.
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