Fans Name the First Canadian NFL Team

Mobile Ottawa Blizzard Winner Announcement

The votes are in, and with 52% of the vote, Ottawa Blizzard has been crowned Canada’s first NFL team!

What started as a playful jab at politics (thanks POTUS) sparked the movement for a fan-voted Canadian NFL team. In a tight race, the Blizzard stormed ahead of the Northmen (21%) and the Grizzlies (27%).

With its frosty name and capital city status, the Ottawa Blizzard is a natural fit for NFL expansion. Could this be the start of Canada’s football era? We’re all in.

Thanks to everyone who voted—this is one border-breaking team we can all get behind.

51st State Starting Lineup

If the NFL greenlights expansion to Ottawa and previous rules are applied, each current NFL team would make a few players available for selection.

Our analysts handpicked a full roster of players born or raised outside the US.

Who Would Lead an NFL Franchise in Canada?

If an NFL team in Canada were to become reality, it would need the right leadership. Marc Trestman is a familiar face in both the CFL and NFL, and Trestman’s experience with this duality makes him a perfect fit for the first international NFL coaching gig. Other Canadian football influences that could be considered are:

Brian Daboll, Ontario-native and current head coach of the New York Giants.
Dave Dickenson, a fan-favorite with a championship pedigree in Calgary
Michael “Pinball” Clemons, an ex-CFL star who’s currently GM of the Toronto Argonauts

Why Ottawa for the 51st State Team?

Ottawa represents a prime opportunity for international audiences to buy into the NFL. Our custom metric—the NFL Expansion Viability Index (NEVI) — compares Ottawa to other possible cities. Canada’s capital has economic strengths, accessibility to other major Canadian cities, and aligns with the shifting focus of the NFL.

Winner Announced May 28

Canada might not be the 51st State and the NFL might be holding back on any expansion plans, but why not get the conversation started? From names and logos to team identity, this poll is your chance to help shape the vision of what a team north of the border could look like.

Whether you’re in it for the rivalry, the design, or just the idea of something new, make sure to have your say before the poll closes on May 28.

News Around the NFL

General

Most Popular Father-Son Duos in Sports

Football

NFL Expected to Allow Players to Participate in ’28 Olympics Flag Football Event

Football

NFL Win Total Best Bets for 2025-26

All NFL News

DISCLAIMER:

This unofficial poll is intended for entertainment purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the National Football League (NFL), its teams, players, or any regulatory authorities in the United States or Canada.

0 Comments