The Philadelphia Stars made a major impact in the USFL with their consistent performances and championship wins. Known for their tough defense and skilled players, the Philadelphia Stars USFL franchise quickly became one of the league’s strongest teams. Their legacy in Philadelphia Stars football history continues to represent excellence and determination on the field.
Established
1983
City
Philadelphia – Baltimore
League History
1983 – 1986, 2022 - Present / United States Football League
Team History
1985 / Baltimore Stars
1983 – 1984, 2022 - Present / Philadelphia Stars
Nickname
Stars – The Philadelphia Stars were among the most successful teams in the United States Football League (USFL) during its three-year run from 1983 to 1985. But what many fans may not know is that the team's nickname has a long and exciting history.
It all began with an American football team called "Philadelphia Quakers," established in 1926 by Charles Brickley, who had previously been involved with several professional baseball teams in Pennsylvania. The name was inspired by William Penn's religious sect known as “The Society of Friends” or “Quakers” for short, which is still active today and headquartered just outside Philadelphia.
Philadelphia Stars Origin
After some success on the field, financial issues caused them to fold after only three seasons. Still, their legacy lived on when another group purchased their assets and formed a new team called "the Yellow Jackets," named after an insect found throughout Pennsylvania at that time of year. However, this venture also failed due to a lack of fan support, so they changed their name again, opting for something more exquisite: The Philadelphia Stars!
It worked out much better than either previous attempt because it made reference both to America's Revolutionary War past (with stars being featured prominently on our nation's flag) as well as shining brightly over City Hall each night like a beacon guiding people home safely from far away places – much like how sports can bring us together even if we are miles apart geographically speaking!
In 1984 when USFL decided they wanted a franchise based out Philly area, there seemed no better choice than reviving old traditions under the same moniker, thus making the official return legendary squad beloved citywide ever since its inception almost sixty years prior! With a strong leadership core including future NFL hall famers Reggie White & Jim Kelly leading way along with other talented players such stars Kelvin Bryant Mike Quick Earnest Gray, among others, it wasn't too hard to see why these guys quickly became darlings in the local community despite never winning championship title during tenure league–which lasted until disbandment following 1986 season due various factors including antitrust lawsuit against NFL eventually won owners USFL franchises millions dollars damages...but sadly didn't save league itself unfortunately.
Championship
USFL Championship 1
1985, 1984
Stadium
1985 / Byrd Stadium
*Philadelphia*
2022 - Present / Protective Stadium/Legion Field (Birmingham, Alabama)
1984 Post Season / Franklin Field
1983 – 1984 / Veterans Stadium
Owner
2022 - Present / National Spring Football League Enterprises Co
1983 – 1986 / Myles Tanenbaum
- 1982
- 1984
- 1985
- 2022
-
Stars Team Formation
On May 11, 1982, the announcement of the USFL was officially made by league owner and antique dealer, David Dixon. The league’s Philadelphia team (later named as the Stars) would be owned by Myles H. Tanenbaum. George Perles was originally named as the team’s head coach in July 1982. Perles, previously an assistant coach for the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers, never ... -
1984 USFL Champs
The Stars remained in Philadelphia for the 1984 season but were forced to relocate their post-season home games to Franklin Field due to a conflict with the Philadelphia Phillies. The Stars roared through the regular season with the league-best 16–2 (.889) record and routed George Allen’s Arizona Wranglers, 23–3 for the league title in Florida at Tampa Stadium on July ... -
Relocate to Baltimore
The league’s owners, led by Donald Trump of the New Jersey Generals, voted to move play to the fall following the 1985 season. The Stars quickly realized they could not compete with the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles. Years later, Tanenbaum said that if he had stayed in Philadelphia, they would have had to start the season on an extended road trip ... -
The Re-Formation of the Stars
The Philadelphia Stars were one of eight teams that were officially announced as a USFL franchise on The Herd with Colin Cowherd on November 22, 2021. On January 6, 2022, It was announced on The Herd with Colin Cowherd that former CFL Head coach Bart Andrus was named the Head coach and General manager of the Stars. Andrus later announced ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Philadelphia Stars History
The Philadelphia Stars were one of the most successful and memorable teams in the United States Football League (USFL). Founded in 1982, the Philadelphia Stars football franchise quickly made its mark, becoming a powerhouse in the league’s inaugural season. They reached the championship game in their first year, narrowly losing but proving their strength and determination.
In 1984, the Philadelphia Stars USFL franchise continued to dominate, moving into the league’s Eastern Division alongside notable teams such as the Baltimore Stars, New Jersey Generals, and Jacksonville Bulls. That season marked one of their greatest achievements — the Philadelphia Stars claimed the championship title with a thrilling 24–22 victory over the Arizona Outlaws in front of more than 65,000 fans at Giants Stadium.
Throughout their short yet impactful existence from 1983 to 1985, the Philadelphia Stars football team became known for their tough defense, strategic gameplay, and a roster filled with future legends like Reggie White and Sam Mills. Under head coach Jim Mora, the team earned a reputation as one of the most organized and disciplined squads in the USFL.
Stars Achievements
When the league folded in 1986 due to financial struggles, the Philadelphia Stars USFL legacy continued to live on among loyal fans. Their success on the field and influence in professional spring football set the standard for future teams.
In 2022, the revival of the USFL brought back the Philadelphia Stars football team, sparking excitement among fans who cherished the golden era of the 1980s. Their return honored the franchise’s original legacy, reminding fans of their championship glory and contribution to USFL history.
1984 USFL Championship Victory
The Philadelphia Stars USFL earned their first championship title in 1984 after a remarkable 24–22 win over the Arizona Outlaws. This victory solidified their place as one of the strongest teams in USFL football history.
Consistent Playoff Appearances
The Philadelphia Stars football team reached the championship game in all three of their active seasons, an unmatched record in the USFL. Their consistency made them one of the most dominant teams of the 1980s.
Revival and Modern Legacy
The Philadelphia Stars returned in the 2022 USFL relaunch, continuing their proud tradition. Their comeback brought nostalgia to fans who witnessed the rise of the Philadelphia Stars football dynasty decades earlier.
"Gear Up for Game Day Like a Pro!"
Don’t just watch history—be a part of it. Rep your colors with authentic NFL jerseys, hats, and limited-edition varsity jackets. High-quality gear for the die-hard fan.
Score Your Gear Now – Official NFL Shop
Accomplishments
1985 / USFL Championship (vs Oakland Invaders 28 – 24)
1984 / USFL Championship (vs Arizona Wranglers 23 – 3)
1983 / USFL Championship Game (vs Michigan Panthers 22 – 24)
1985 / Conference Champions (vs Birmingham Stallions 28 – 14)
1984 / Conference Champions (vs Birmingham Stallions 20 – 10)
1985 / Divisional Champions (vs New Jersey Generals 20 – 17)
1984 / Divisional Champions (vs New Jersey Generals 28 – 7)
1983 / Divisional Champions (vs Chicago Blitz 44 – 38 OT)
Averaged 14,275 fans (34,680 seat stadium)
*Blue is this team’s history