The NFL you know today—with 32 powerhouse franchises, billion-dollar stadiums, and global fan bases—didn’t always look like this. In the league’s early years, dozens of teams came and went, folding under financial struggles or merging into what became the modern NFL. These forgotten NFL teams laid the foundation for today’s league, even if they’re lost to history.

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Dayton Triangles (1913–1929)

The Dayton Triangles were one of the original members of the American Professional Football Association, which became the NFL in 1922. Known for playing the first-ever official NFL game in 1920, the Triangles never achieved great success on the field. By 1929, they were sold and eventually relocated, evolving into what became the Brooklyn Dodgers football team.

Why they matter: They literally kicked off the NFL, hosting the league’s very first game.

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Portsmouth Spartans (1930–1933)

Hailing from a small Ohio town, the Portsmouth Spartans played just four seasons in the NFL. Despite their size, they were competitive and even played in the first-ever playoff game in 1932. Financial troubles forced a move to Detroit, where the team became the Detroit Lions.

Why they matter: Without Portsmouth, there may never have been playoff football.

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Pottsville Maroons (1925–1928)

One of the most controversial teams in NFL history, the Pottsville Maroons were stripped of the 1925 NFL Championship after playing an unauthorized exhibition game. Many fans and historians still argue the Maroons deserve recognition as champions. The team eventually folded in 1928.

Why they matter: They left behind one of the NFL’s longest-standing championship controversies.

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Duluth Eskimos (1923–1927)

The Duluth Eskimos were famous for their brutal road trips. With poor attendance in their small Minnesota market, they played most games on the road, becoming known as the NFL’s first true “traveling team.” Despite short-lived success, the franchise folded by 1927.

Why they matter: They pioneered the traveling team model that helped keep the early NFL afloat.

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Brooklyn Dodgers (1930–1944)

Not to be confused with the baseball team, the Brooklyn Dodgers football franchise was part of the NFL for 14 seasons. They had moments of competitiveness but were eventually absorbed during World War II roster shortages.

Why they matter: They represent the era when NFL and MLB franchises often shared names and cities.

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Other Defunct NFL Franchises Worth Remembering

• Canton Bulldogs (1903–1926) – Once the pride of pro football, with back-to-back championships.

• Akron Pros (1920–1926) – Winners of the first-ever NFL Championship in 1920.

• Frankford Yellow Jackets (1924–1931) – The predecessors of the modern Philadelphia Eagles.

• Chicago Cardinals (1898–1959) – Moved twice before becoming today’s Arizona Cardinals.

• Boston Yanks (1944–1948) – One of the short-lived franchises post-WWII.

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Why Forgotten NFL Teams Still Matter

While these franchises are long gone, their contributions are still felt today. They shaped the rules, culture, and foundation of professional football. Without the Dayton Triangles, Portsmouth Spartans, or Pottsville Maroons, the NFL may not have grown into the juggernaut it is now.

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