The Portland Breakers were one of the most unique teams in USFL history, known for their dynamic style of Breakers football and passionate fan base. Originally part of the United States Football League, the Portland Breakers brought professional football to the Pacific Northwest, leaving behind a short but memorable legacy in the sport’s history.
Established
1983
City
Boston – New Orleans – Portland
League History
1983 – 1986, 2022 - Present / United States Football League
Team History
1985 / Portland Breakers
1984, 2022 - Present / New Orleans Breakers
1983 / Boston Breakers
Nickname
Breakers – The Portland Breakers were a professional American football team that played in the United States Football League (USFL) from 1983 to 1985. The team was based in Portland, Oregon, and had one of the most unique nicknames of any USFL franchise. But where did this nickname come from? Let’s take a look at how the Portland Breakers got their name.
Portland Breakers Origin
The origin story starts with owner Bill Daniels, who purchased an expansion franchise for 4 million dollars in 1982 and named it after his hometown: “Portland.” To complete the branding process, he needed to find a catchy nickname for his new venture, something memorable that could be used on merchandise and draw attention to what would become one of only four USFL teams located west of Texas (the other three being Los Angeles Express, Denver Gold & Oakland Invaders). After much deliberation, he landed on “Breakers,” – which perfectly encapsulated Daniel's love for surfing and symbolized breaking away from traditional norms associated with professional football leagues at that time!
In addition to its connection with Daniels' interests, "Breakers" also represented power - just like waves crashing onto shorelines or walls crumbling during demolition projects - which made it perfect not only for marketing purposes but also giving fans something tangible they could identify themselves within through their passion towards supporting this upstart league! With all these factors combined, there is no doubt why 'Breaker' eventually became synonymous with everything related to sports and culture throughout the Pacific Northwest region during those years...
Championship
USFL Championship 0
Stadium
1985 / Civic Stadium
*New Orleans*
2022 - Present / Protective Stadium/Legion Field (Birmingham, Alabama)
1984 / Louisiana Superdome
*Boston*
1983 / Nickerson Field
Owner
2022 - Present / National Spring Football League Enterprises Co
1985 / Joseph Canizaro
1984 / Joseph Canizaro and Randy Vataha
1983 / George Matthews and Randy Vataha
- 1985
- 1986
-
Move to Portland
Searching for a home, Canizaro considered moving to Sacramento and Columbus and even weighed merging with the Birmingham Stallions. However, he was particularly intrigued when he visited Portland. It was a fairly large market with a reasonably adequate facility by USFL standards in 32,000 seat Civic Stadium (the stadium capacity has since been reduced). The move to Portland was announced ... -
USFL Shutdown
The Breakers were one of nine teams slated to play in the USFL’s first fall season and were slated to be one of only two teams west of the Mississippi River. However, they had only drawn 19,919 per game, nowhere near enough to break even. After talks to merge with other teams failed, Canizaro folded the franchise while the USFL’s ...
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Portland Breakers History
The Portland Breakers were a professional American football team that competed in the United States Football League (USFL) from 1983 to 1985. Originally established by owner Robert Harris, the team began its journey as the Boston Breakers before relocating to New Orleans and eventually settling in Portland, Oregon. They played their home games at Civic Stadium, where local fans quickly embraced breakers football and the team’s spirited play.
In their first season, the Portland Breakers showcased resilience and talent, finishing with a competitive record and earning a playoff berth. Though they didn’t secure a championship, their performance against top USFL teams earned them respect across the league. The 1984 season saw growing fan support in Portland, as the Breakers became a beloved part of the city’s sports culture.
However, financial instability struck when the USFL decided to shift its schedule from spring and summer to a fall and winter format. This change led to heavy competition with the NFL, causing revenue challenges for several franchises. Owner Robert Harris eventually sold the franchise, which went through multiple ownership changes before folding after the 1985 season. Despite this, Portland Breakers fans remained loyal, keeping the spirit of breakers football alive in Oregon sports history.
Breakers Achievements
The Portland Breakers also had several standout players, including quarterback Johnnie Walton and running back Buford Jordan, who were key contributors to the team’s offensive strength. Their leadership and skill helped define the identity of breakers football in the USFL era.
Memorable 1984 Season
During the 1984 USFL season, the Portland Breakers posted several impressive wins and finished as one of the league’s most competitive teams. Their offensive strategy and solid defense turned them into fan favorites across the league, marking one of the brightest moments in their brief history.
Legacy in Oregon Sports
Although short-lived, the Portland Breakers left a meaningful legacy in the Pacific Northwest. As one of the few professional football teams ever based in Oregon, they contributed greatly to the region’s football culture. The memories of the breakers football era remain cherished by longtime fans who continue to celebrate the team’s contribution to USFL history.
Sports Fan Products
Accomplishments
Averaged 19,919 fans (32,500 seat stadium)
*Blue is this team’s history