San Antonio Brahmas Overview
The San Antonio Brahmas were a professional American football team based in San Antonio, Texas. Founded in 2022, they competed in the United Football League (UFL) as a member of the XFL Conference and South Division. The team was co-owned by Fox Corporation, Dany Garcia, Dwayne Johnson, and RedBird Capital Partners. They played their home games at the Alamodome and were known for their dark gray, yellow, and light gray colors. The Brahmas achieved notable success by winning the XFL championship in 2024 before the team ceased operations in 2025.
Founding and Organizational Origins
The San Antonio Brahmas were established in 2022 as part of the XFL’s expansion and restructuring efforts following the league’s initial 2020 season suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The team was created to bring professional football back to San Antonio, a market previously served by the Alliance of American Football’s San Antonio Commanders. Ownership was shared equally between Fox Corporation and a consortium including Dany Garcia, Dwayne Johnson, and RedBird Capital Partners. The Brahmas’ name and branding drew inspiration from the American Brahman cattle, reflecting a strong and resilient identity tied to local culture. The Alamodome was selected as their home stadium, providing a central venue for fans in San Antonio.
Growth Into XFL Competition
The Brahmas joined the XFL in its 2023 season, replacing the LA Wildcats as part of the league’s realignment. The team was initially coached by Hines Ward, with Marc Lillibridge serving as general manager. The Brahmas assembled their roster through the 2023 XFL draft, focusing on key positions such as quarterback and running back. Despite a challenging inaugural season with a 3–7 record, the organization laid the groundwork for future competitiveness. The team benefited from the league’s merger with the USFL in late 2023, which formed the United Football League and expanded the Brahmas’ competitive landscape.
San Antonio Brahmas Competitive Journey
The Brahmas’ competitive journey was brief but eventful, spanning from their inaugural 2023 season through their championship-winning 2024 campaign. They experienced early growing pains but quickly developed into a formidable team within the UFL framework.
Early Seasons and Development (2023–2024)
In their first season in 2023, the Brahmas struggled to find consistency, finishing with a 3–7 record and missing the playoffs. The team focused on building a strong foundation, drafting promising players and adjusting coaching staff. The departure of head coach Hines Ward after the 2023 season led to the hiring of Wade Phillips, who brought extensive experience to the team. The Brahmas improved significantly in 2024, culminating in their first XFL championship title. This breakthrough was marked by strategic enhancements in coaching, player development, and game management.
Breakthrough in XFL (2024)
The 2024 season was a turning point for the Brahmas, as they captured the XFL Cup, the league’s championship trophy. This achievement reflected the team’s growth in competitive stability, tactical execution, and roster depth. The Brahmas’ success was supported by strong leadership from head coach Wade Phillips and general manager Marc Lillibridge. The team demonstrated resilience and adaptability, overcoming early challenges to secure their first major title.
Modern Program and Current Direction (2024–2025)
Following their championship win, the Brahmas faced organizational changes and challenges. Wade Phillips’ health issues during the 2025 season led to Payton Pardee assuming head coaching duties. Despite these transitions, the team maintained a competitive presence in the UFL. However, in October 2025, the league announced the closure of the Brahmas organization, citing new ownership visions and stadium considerations. The Alamodome’s size and atmosphere were factors in the decision to cease operations. The Brahmas’ closure marked the end of their brief but impactful tenure in professional football.
Philosophy and Competitive Strengths
The San Antonio Brahmas built their identity around resilience, strategic adaptability, and a strong connection to local culture. Their focus on disciplined defense and dynamic offense allowed them to excel in high-pressure situations, culminating in their 2024 championship run. The team’s colors and branding emphasized strength and regional pride, resonating with their fan base.
Key Milestones and Major Moments
Key milestones for the Brahmas include their inaugural season in 2023, the hiring of Wade Phillips as head coach, and their 2024 XFL championship victory. The team’s establishment in San Antonio marked the return of professional football to the city since the 2019 San Antonio Commanders. The unexpected closure in 2025 was a significant moment, reflecting broader league and ownership dynamics.
San Antonio Brahmas Achievements and Results
The San Antonio Brahmas’ most notable accomplishment was winning the XFL championship in 2024. Their overall franchise record stood at 11–11, reflecting a balanced competitive history over their brief existence.
XFL Achievements
The Brahmas secured their first and only XFL Cup in 2024, marking a major highlight in the franchise’s history. This championship was achieved through a combination of strong coaching, effective player acquisitions, and tactical execution. The Brahmas’ playoff appearance and ultimate victory underscored their rapid development within the league.
Conference Achievements
Competing in the XFL Conference’s South Division, the Brahmas established themselves as a competitive force by 2024. Their championship run demonstrated their ability to outperform divisional rivals and succeed in high-stakes conference matchups.
Divisional Achievements
As members of the South Division, the Brahmas competed against regional opponents, fostering rivalries such as the Lone Star Showdown with the Houston Roughnecks. Their divisional performance improved significantly from their inaugural season to their championship year.
Series Achievements
The Brahmas’ participation in the United Football League, formed from the merger of the XFL and USFL, positioned them within a broader competitive series. Their 2024 championship remains a standout achievement within the series’ history. The team’s legacy contributes to the evolving landscape of professional American football outside the NFL.
