Choosing an NFL team to support is one of the most exciting decisions for a new fan. Unlike supporting your local football club, there's no geographical obligation - you're free to pick any of the 32 teams. But with so many options, where do you start? This guide will help UK fans find their perfect NFL team based on UK connections, playing styles, history, and practical viewing considerations.
Quick Answer
For UK fans wanting strong local connections, the Jacksonville Jaguars are "London's team" with 14+ games played here since 2013 and extensive UK grassroots programmes. For exciting, winning football, the Kansas City Chiefs (current dynasty) or Philadelphia Eagles offer spectacular play. For historic underdogs with passionate fanbases, consider the Buffalo Bills or Detroit Lions.
Most Popular NFL Teams in the UK
Before diving into specific recommendations, it's worth knowing which teams already have large UK fanbases. Supporting a popular team means more people to discuss games with, more UK-based fan events, and games more likely to be shown on Sky Sports.
| Rank | Team | UK Search Share | Why Popular |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kansas City Chiefs | 9.5% | Patrick Mahomes era, back-to-back Super Bowls |
| 2 | Philadelphia Eagles | 6.3% | Recent Super Bowl runs, passionate fanbase |
| 2 | San Francisco 49ers | 6.3% | Historic dynasty, UK marketing rights |
| 4 | Dallas Cowboys | 5.2% | 1990s dynasty, "America's Team" legacy |
| 4 | Green Bay Packers | 5.2% | Unique fan-owned model, Aaron Rodgers era |
| 4 | Miami Dolphins | 5.2% | Dan Marino 1980s legacy, UK marketing rights |
| 4 | Buffalo Bills | 5.2% | Josh Allen excitement, passionate "Bills Mafia" |
Key insight: Recent Super Bowl success drives UK popularity. The Chiefs' dominance under Patrick Mahomes has made them the UK's most-searched team in 2026. However, teams like the Dolphins and Cowboys retain large UK fanbases from the 1980s and 1990s - many UK fans inherited their team from parents who watched NFL on Channel 4 in that era.
Teams with Strong UK Connections
If you want a team with genuine ties to Britain, these franchises have invested heavily in UK fandom:
Jacksonville Jaguars - "London's NFL Team"
The Jaguars have the strongest UK connection of any NFL team. They've committed to playing at least one home game in London every season and have built extensive grassroots programmes here.
- London games: 14+ games at Wembley since 2013 - more than any other team
- UK marketing rights: Official NFL Global Markets Programme member
- Grassroots: JagTag programme has reached 100,000+ UK youngsters
- Dedicated UK website: jaguars.co.uk with UK-specific content
- Fan club: Active UK Jaguars supporters group
The case for: Maximum UK engagement, annual London games to attend, community feel. The case against: Historically inconsistent on-field performance (though improving under Trevor Lawrence).
Chicago Bears
The Bears have deep UK roots dating back to the 1980s. Their dominant 1985 Super Bowl team captured British attention during NFL's first wave of UK popularity.
- Historical first: Played at Wembley in 1986 American Bowl
- UK marketing rights: Official Global Markets Programme member
- Legacy fanbase: Many UK fans date back to the "Super Bowl Shuffle" era
- Exciting rebuild: Young quarterback Caleb Williams offers hope
Other Teams with UK Marketing Rights
The NFL's Global Markets Programme grants these teams official rights to market in the UK:
- Miami Dolphins: Huge 1980s fanbase from Dan Marino era
- Minnesota Vikings: Regular London visitors, passionate fanbase
- New York Jets: Play at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
- San Francisco 49ers: Historic dynasty appeal, West Coast style
Choose by Playing Style
Different teams play distinctly different styles of football. If you're coming from watching Premier League football or rugby, certain NFL styles might appeal more:
High-Scoring Offensive Spectacles
If you want touchdowns, big plays, and scoreboard fireworks:
- Kansas City Chiefs: Patrick Mahomes delivers circus catches, no-look passes, and comeback victories. The most entertaining quarterback in the game.
- Miami Dolphins: Tyreek Hill and the fastest offence in the NFL. When they click, they score from anywhere.
- Philadelphia Eagles: Powerful running game combined with explosive passing. Physical, exciting football.
Defensive Dominance
If you appreciate clean sheets and tactical battles:
- Baltimore Ravens: Hard-hitting defence with innovative offensive schemes. Physical football at its finest.
- San Francisco 49ers: Elite defensive coaching, smart scheming, and devastating pass rush.
- Pittsburgh Steelers: Historic defensive culture. "Steel Curtain" legacy continues.
Ground-and-Pound Running
If you like rugby-style physicality and controlling the clock:
- Baltimore Ravens: Lamar Jackson's unique running ability combined with physical backs.
- San Francisco 49ers: Sophisticated running schemes with athletic backs.
- Cleveland Browns: Built around powerful running back Nick Chubb.
Classic Quarterback Play
If you want to watch elite passing and pocket presence:
- Buffalo Bills: Josh Allen's cannon arm and athleticism make every game exciting.
- Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow's precision passing and clutch performances.
- Detroit Lions: Jared Goff's resurgence has been remarkable to watch.
Choose by History and Tradition
Historic Dynasties
These teams have the most Super Bowl success and storied histories:
| Team | Super Bowls | Dynasty Era | Current State |
|---|---|---|---|
| New England Patriots | 6 | 2001-2018 (Brady/Belichick) | Rebuilding |
| Pittsburgh Steelers | 6 | 1970s Steel Curtain | Competitive |
| San Francisco 49ers | 5 | 1980s-90s (Montana/Young) | Contending |
| Dallas Cowboys | 5 | 1990s Triplets era | Competitive |
| Green Bay Packers | 4 | 1960s Lombardi, 1990s Favre | Rebuilding with Jordan Love |
| New York Giants | 4 | 1980s, 2007/2011 | Rebuilding |
| Kansas City Chiefs | 4 | 2019-present (Mahomes) | Current dynasty |
Unique Ownership: Green Bay Packers
The Packers are the only publicly-owned team in American professional sports. Over 360,000 shareholders own the team - no billionaire owner, just fans. If community ownership appeals to you (think of a supporter-owned football club), the Packers offer something unique in sports.
Loveable Underdogs
Supporting an underdog creates a different kind of fandom - tighter community, lower expectations, and the potential for magical breakthrough seasons. The Detroit Lions' 2023-24 transformation from perennial losers to NFC contenders shows what's possible.
Detroit Lions
The ultimate redemption story. After decades of futility (0-16 season in 2008, longest playoff win drought in NFL), the Lions have transformed into genuine contenders. Their passionate fanbase has waited generations for success.
Why choose them: You'd join a fanbase on the cusp of something special, with genuine underdog credibility.
Buffalo Bills
The "Bills Mafia" is one of the NFL's most passionate, fun-loving fanbases. Famous for tailgate parties involving tables being smashed, charitable giving, and unwavering support despite four consecutive Super Bowl losses in the 1990s.
Why choose them: Elite quarterback in Josh Allen, incredible fan culture, and a small-market community feel.
Cleveland Browns
The ultimate test of loyalty. Browns fans have endured decades of heartbreak, including the original team relocating to become the Ravens. Yet Cleveland's fanbase remains fiercely loyal.
Why choose them: True underdog credibility, passionate blue-collar fanbase, eventual success will be incredibly sweet.
Bandwagon Warning
While there's nothing wrong with supporting successful teams, be prepared for "bandwagon" accusations if you choose the Chiefs, Eagles, or whoever just won the Super Bowl. The NFL community respects fans who stick with teams through thick and thin.
Teams with British Player Connections
Several British-born players have made it to the NFL. Supporting their teams connects you to UK football history:
Super Bowl-Winning Brits
- New York Giants: Osi Umenyiora (London-born) won two Super Bowls with the Giants. Lawrence Tynes (Scottish kicker) also won two rings.
- Philadelphia Eagles: Jay Ajayi (London-born running back) won Super Bowl LII.
Current/Recent British NFL Players
- Washington Commanders: Efe Obada - inspirational story, first International Player Pathway graduate to make a 53-man roster.
- Buffalo Bills/New York Giants: Jamie Gillan (Scottish punter "The Scottish Hammer").
- Philadelphia Eagles: Jordan Mailata (Australian but IPP connection) - one of the NFL's best left tackles.
NFL's International Player Pathway
The IPP programme develops international talent, including many British players. Teams that embrace international players include the Dallas Cowboys (coach Aden Durde is British), New England Patriots, and Jacksonville Jaguars.
Practical Consideration: UK Viewing Times
One often-overlooked factor: where your team is based affects when their games kick off in UK time.
East Coast Teams (Better for UK Viewing)
Teams in the Eastern Time Zone play more games at 6pm UK time (1pm ET local). These include:
- AFC East: Bills, Dolphins, Patriots, Jets
- NFC East: Cowboys, Eagles, Giants, Commanders
- AFC North: Ravens, Bengals, Browns, Steelers
- NFC South: Falcons, Panthers, Saints, Buccaneers
West Coast Teams (Later UK Kick-offs)
Pacific Time Zone teams often play at 9:05pm or 9:25pm UK time. Late games can kick off after 1am UK. These include:
- AFC West: Broncos, Chiefs, Raiders, Chargers
- NFC West: 49ers, Seahawks, Rams, Cardinals
UK Viewing Tip
If staying up late isn't your thing, East Coast teams offer more convenient viewing. But don't let this be your only factor - NFL Game Pass lets you watch condensed replays the next morning, avoiding spoilers.
Quick Team Finder
Answer these questions to narrow down your choice:
What matters most to you?
1. UK Connection is important
- Strong: Jacksonville Jaguars (most London games, grassroots programmes)
- Moderate: Chicago Bears, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings (UK marketing rights)
2. I want to support winners
- Current dynasty: Kansas City Chiefs
- Perennial contenders: San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, Buffalo Bills
- Historic greatness: New England Patriots, Pittsburgh Steelers, Dallas Cowboys
3. I prefer underdogs
- Breakthrough imminent: Detroit Lions
- Passionate fanbase: Buffalo Bills, Cleveland Browns
- Rebuilding with hope: Chicago Bears, New England Patriots
4. I want exciting offensive football
- Must-watch quarterback: Kansas City Chiefs (Mahomes), Buffalo Bills (Allen)
- Speed and explosiveness: Miami Dolphins
- Balanced attack: Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers
5. I appreciate defence and physicality
- Hard-hitting: Baltimore Ravens, Pittsburgh Steelers
- Tactical defence: San Francisco 49ers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular NFL team in the UK?
As of 2026, the Kansas City Chiefs are the most popular NFL team in the UK with a 9.5% share of all NFL team searches. The Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers are joint second at 6.3%. Historically, the Miami Dolphins and Dallas Cowboys have large UK fanbases dating back to the 1980s.
Which NFL team has the strongest UK connection?
The Jacksonville Jaguars have the strongest UK connection. They've played more games in London than any other team (14+ games since 2013), have UK marketing rights, run grassroots programmes reaching 100,000+ UK youngsters, and have a dedicated UK fan club. They're often called "London's NFL team".
Should I support a winning team or an underdog?
Both approaches have merit. Supporting a winning team (Chiefs, Eagles) means more televised games and playoff excitement. Supporting an underdog (Lions before 2023, Browns, Jaguars) creates a stronger sense of community and makes eventual success more rewarding. There's no wrong answer - pick what feels right.
Are there any British players in the NFL?
Yes! Notable British-born NFL players include Super Bowl winners Osi Umenyiora (London-born, 2x champion with Giants), Jay Ajayi (London-born, Eagles champion), and Lawrence Tynes (Scottish kicker, 2x Giants champion). Current players include Efe Obada (Washington Commanders) and Jamie Gillan (punter). The NFL's International Player Pathway continues developing UK talent.
Which NFL teams play in London most often?
The Jacksonville Jaguars play in London annually as part of their multi-year commitment. Other teams with UK marketing rights include the Chicago Bears, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, New York Jets, and San Francisco 49ers. The NFL typically hosts 3-4 London games each October at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Wembley.
What's the best team for UK-friendly game times?
East Coast teams (Patriots, Jets, Giants, Dolphins, Bills, Eagles, Ravens, etc.) play more 6pm UK kickoffs since their home games are scheduled for US afternoon slots. West Coast teams (49ers, Seahawks, Raiders, Chargers, Rams) often play later, with some games kicking off at 9:25pm UK time or later.
Can I change my NFL team later?
While it's generally frowned upon in sports culture to switch teams, as a new fan you have a "grace period" to explore different teams before committing. Many UK fans follow a primary team passionately while casually enjoying other teams. The key is picking a team you'll stick with through thick and thin.
Final Thoughts
There's no wrong answer when choosing an NFL team. Whether you pick the current champions, an underdog with potential, or a team with strong UK ties, the key is making a genuine connection. Watch a few games, explore team histories, and see which fanbase resonates with you.
Remember: NFL fandom is a marathon, not a sprint. You'll experience heartbreaking losses, frustrating seasons, and moments of pure joy. That's what makes it special. Once you've picked your team, commit to them through the good times and bad - that's what being a fan is all about.
Welcome to the NFL. Your team awaits.
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Check out our complete guide to watching NFL games from the UK.
How to Watch NFL in UKI Support A Team 5,000 Miles Away
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