Could Donald Trump own an NFL team? Revisiting his past bids and future possibilities

Donald Trump’s relationship with the NFL has been a rollercoaster of ambition, rivalry, and missed opportunities. For decades, the former U.S. president and billionaire businessman has attempted to break into NFL ownership, only to face rejection or failed deals. While successful in many ventures, his path to owning an NFL franchise has been full of obstacles. Could he still find a way into the exclusive club of NFL owners? Let's look back at his past bids and whether a future acquisition is possible.


Trump’s first recorded attempt to buy an NFL team came in 1981 when he pursued the Baltimore Colts. Team owner Robert Irsay was contemplating selling the franchise or relocating it. Despite leading a group offering $50 million for the team, Trump ultimately failed to secure the purchase, later denying he was even involved.
In 1984, he briefly considered buying the Dallas Cowboys, which were up for sale for $50 million. However, Trump declined, stating that the team wasn’t a profitable investment. That decision is now viewed as a massive miscalculation, as the Cowboys have since become the most valuable sports franchise in the world, worth over $10 billion.
His most notable foray into football came through the United States Football League (USFL), where he bought the New Jersey Generals in 1983. Under his ownership, Trump aggressively pushed the USFL to move its schedule to compete directly with the NFL, a move that ultimately contributed to the league’s downfall. The USFL's lawsuit against the NFL resulted in a symbolic $3 victory, but it was far from the outcome Trump had hoped for.
In 2014, Trump made another push for an NFL team when the Buffalo Bills were up for sale following the passing of their owner, Ralph Wilson. Despite an aggressive campaign, including efforts to discredit rival bidder Jon Bon Jovi, Trump was ultimately outbid by Terry Pegula, who acquired the team for $1.4 billion. Reports later suggested that NFL owners had doubts about Trump’s financial ability to complete the purchase, further dimming his prospects.

Given Trump’s tumultuous history with the NFL ranging from lawsuits to public spats with players over protests during the national anthem, it remains highly unlikely that league owners would approve him as a franchise owner. The NFL has a history of vetting potential owners meticulously, and Trump’s divisive political career and past conflicts with the league could be significant roadblocks.
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However, Trump is never one to back down from a challenge. If the right opportunity arises and he finds a willing seller, his deep pockets and influence could still put him in the mix. While history suggests the NFL has no interest in welcoming him into its inner circle, Trump’s name remains forever linked to his persistent but unsuccessful quest to own a team in the league.