The Memphis Express was a professional American football team that played in the Alliance of American Football (AAF). Known for their strong roster and competitive spirit, the Memphis Express football team represented the city with pride. Their history reflects a short yet impactful journey that left lasting memories for fans in Memphis and beyond.
Established
2018
City
Memphis
League History
2019 / Alliance of American Football
Team History
2019 / Memphis Express
Nickname
Express – The Memphis Express is the newest team in the Alliance of American Football (AAF), and its name has an interesting origin. The franchise was founded by local businessman and philanthropist Red McCombs, who wanted to pay homage to his hometown’s history as a central hub for transportation.
McCombs chose the name “Express” because it reflects both Memphis' past as a railway station for freight trains carrying goods from all over America and its present-day role as one of America's most important cities regarding shipping and logistics. This makes sense considering that FedEx is headquartered in Memphis!
Memphis Express Origin
The team logo features two locomotives facing each other with lightning bolts shooting between them; this symbolizes speed and power - something that any sports fan can appreciate! Furthermore, while many teams have chosen colors such as blue or red for their uniforms - which are often symbolic of strength or courage respectively - Express went with white instead; they believe this color represents purity and hope on top of reflecting light off the field so players can see better during night games.
Overall, we think fans should be proud that their city's new football team has taken great care in choosing its identity: from its nickname to what color uniform they wear every game day! It shows just how much respect Red McCombs had for his hometown when he named this franchise after one of its most iconic industries – transportation via train express – making sure everyone knows where these champions come from: right here at home in beautiful downtown Memphis Tennessee!
Championship
AAF Championships 0
Stadium
2019 / Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium
Owner
2019 / Alliance of American Football
Coach
2019 / Mike Singletary
*Blue is this team’s history
- 2018
- 2019
- 2019
- 2019
- 2019
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Memphis Express Team Formation
The Memphis Express was a professional American football franchise based in Memphis, Tennessee. It was a member of the Alliance of American Football (AAF) during its single season in 2019. They played their home games at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium and were coached by former NFL player and head coach Mike Singletary. -
Head Coach Mike
Memphis Express played their home games at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium, and were coached by former NFL player and head coach Mike Singletary. -
Memphis Express home games stadium
In 2019 Memphis Express played their home games at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium. -
Memphis First Win
Memphis notched their first win on 2 March 2019, with a 26–23 victory over the San Diego Fleet at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium -
AAF and Express file Chapter 7
On April 2, 2019, the league’s football operations were reportedly suspended, and on April 4 the league allowed players to leave their contracts to sign with NFL teams.
Memphis Express History
The Memphis Express was a professional American football team based in Memphis, Tennessee. The franchise was founded in 2018 and joined the Alliance of American Football (AAF) for its inaugural 2019 season. The Memphis Express football team played its home games at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium, proudly representing the city in this ambitious new spring league.
Led by head coach Mike Singletary, the Memphis Express entered the AAF with high expectations. Former University of Alabama coach Mike Price worked as the offensive coordinator and special teams coach, helping the team establish a competitive identity. The Memphis Express football team played their first game against the Birmingham Iron on March 24, 2019, marking their official debut in professional football.
Throughout the 2019 season, the Memphis Express showcased resilience and improvement. They earned several key victories, including wins over the Orlando Apollos (25–11) and the Salt Lake Stallions (27–25). Despite an overall record of 5–3, the team’s playoff hopes were cut short after a 32–15 loss to the Arizona Hotshots on April 21, 2019. The same day, the AAF suspended operations, bringing the Memphis Express football journey to an abrupt end.
Although their time in the league was short, the Memphis Express left a lasting impression on fans. They became one of only two expansion franchises, alongside the Birmingham Iron, to finish with a winning record in their debut season. Their strong performance highlighted Memphis’s passion for football and its commitment to building a team rooted in grit and determination.
Memphis Achievements
Winning Record in Inaugural Season
The Memphis Express achieved a rare milestone in AAF history by finishing their inaugural season with a winning record. This accomplishment set them apart as one of the most competitive teams in the league’s short existence.
Notable Player Contributions
Several standout players made their mark during the Memphis Express football season. Quarterback Johnny Manziel joined the team midseason, bringing national attention and renewed excitement to Memphis fans. Running back Zac Stacy also made history by becoming the first player in AAF history to rush for over 100 yards in a single game.
Legacy in Memphis Football
Even after the AAF folded, the Memphis Express remained a symbol of the city’s love for football. Their brief but memorable journey demonstrated the potential for professional spring football in Memphis and inspired hopes for future teams to continue the city’s proud football tradition.
