Trump Has Maintained Interest in Owning an NFL Team
The President indicated he has waited decades for the right moment to enter the professional football market.
Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Football
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President Donald Trump expressed a continued interest in purchasing an NFL team, noting he has tracked franchise valuations for 45 years. The 80-year-old President previously attempted to acquire the Buffalo Bills in 2014.
Why it matters
Trump's comments highlight a long-standing desire to own a professional football franchise that dates back to his time leading the United States Football League. His pursuit of team ownership reflects a persistent interest in the sport's high-stakes business landscape.
Trump previously submitted a bid worth a reported $1 billion to purchase the Buffalo Bills in 2014. He has been monitoring NFL franchise pricing for 45 years while awaiting a decrease in market valuations.
The players
Donald Trump
He is the current President of the United States and a former owner of the New Jersey Generals in the USFL.
The details
Before his political career, Trump owned the New Jersey Generals in the USFL starting in 1983. In 1985, he and other team owners unsuccessfully attempted to force an NFL merger by moving their league schedule to the fall.
Timeline
Trump acquired the New Jersey Generals in 1983.
New Jersey Generals owners voted to switch to a fall schedule in 1985.
Trump attempted to buy the Buffalo Bills in 2014.
Trump took office for his second presidential term in January 2025.
Trump commented on NFL team prices on September 26, 2026.
Season Trajectory
Trump's stated intent to purchase a team surfaces during a period of record-high NFL valuations that have made franchise ownership increasingly difficult for individual investors. This ambition mirrors his historical attempt to leverage the USFL to gain entry into the league.
A potential purchase would necessitate Trump divesting from conflicts of interest to comply with league ownership regulations. His repeated public interest remains a hypothetical scenario as current franchise prices continue to climb well beyond previous bids.
The takeaway
Trump's long-standing goal of NFL ownership underscores the immense barriers to entry for professional sports franchises. Fans and investors should note that league rules and high asset prices continue to serve as major obstacles for any potential buyer.
Further reading
For more background on the business side of the sport, visit the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Bradenton Herald.
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