The 2026 United Football League arrives with a fresh look: new cities in Columbus, Louisville, and Orlando, plus the return of the Dallas Renegades name and the Houston Gamblers brand. With all eight teams in one table and only four playoff spots, every game matters.

At the top, the DC Defenders and Birmingham Stallions look like the safest bets. Both carry strong coaching, continuity, and proven spring-football success. The St. Louis Battlehawks remain firmly in the postseason mix, while Dallas has enough experience to slip into the final playoff spot.

Expansion clubs — Columbus, Orlando, and Louisville — should be competitive but will likely face the typical first-year growing pains. Houston’s coaching reset gives them upside, but consistency could keep them just outside the playoffs.

Predicted Final Table

1.DC Defenders

2.Birmingham Stallions

3.St. Louis Battlehawks

4.Dallas Renegades

5.Houston Gamblers

6.Columbus Aviators

7.Orlando Storm

8.Louisville Kings