1955 merger with AFL

In 1955, the American Football League (AFL), a rival to the more established National Football League (NFL), decided to merge with the NFL. This union combined the two leagues’ teams, talent, and resources, creating a more unified and competitive professional football structure in the United States. The merger helped increase the sport’s popularity, improve standards, and expand opportunities for players and fans. It also laid the groundwork for the NFL’s dominance in American football today, ending years of competition and establishing a single, stronger league.