PFT: NFL Network will air Arena League games

[WoodysGirl]

Posted by Michael David Smith on February 8, 2010 10:23 AM ET

In September we noted that a new indoor football league, known as Arena League 1, was preparing to begin play in 2010, combining teams from the defunct Arena Football League, the minor league called af2, and other indoor football leagues. Now Arena League 1 has a TV deal.

NFL Network will air games from Arena League 1 (which is expected to adopt the old Arena Football League name once all the deals with all the teams are in place) on Friday nights beginning in April, Sports Business Journal is reporting.

"We embrace football at all levels," said Charles Coplin, vice president of programming for the NFL. "This spring schedule gives us a weekly live game featuring some players who may eventually play in the NFL."

The new Arena League isn't going to be a ratings juggernaut for NFL Network, but it's more football on TV. No one can complain about that.

 

[Hook'em#11]

Cool,

I would rather watch that then the stupid cheerleading tryouts they have on the NFL Network channel in the offseason.

 

[adamknite]

I really liked the AFL.... I'm actually glad it's kind of back.

 

[pgreptom]

This is definitely cool.

 

[Four]

I miss nfl europe.

I like arena ball, but it's a different game.

 

[Cajuncowboy]

Great! I really liked Arena Football.

 

[jswalker1981]

What they need to do is to really support the AFL by not just airing the games, but by also breaking down the games. Have analysis and preview games. ESPN's lack of highlights and true coverage really hurt the arena league.

 

[Randy White]

use it as a semi- minor leagues where teams can develop young QBs, receivers, and defensive backs.

The game itself is basically a 7 on 7 drill with a couple of linemen for show.

 

[67CowboysFan]

Coolio, something that resembles football to watch in the offseason.

 

[Bonecrusher#31]

Does Jerry have a team again ?

 

[Fletch]

Cool,

I would rather watch that then the stupid cheerleading tryouts they have on the NFL Network channel in the offseason.

I hope Dallas has a team. I'm sure they would.

 

[Bob Sacamano]

I miss nfl europe.

I like arena ball, but it's a different game.

I bet you don't wear deodorant either

 

[adamknite]

I hope Dallas has a team. I'm sure they would.

Yes, Dallas Vigilantes (stupid name IMO). They were originally going to use the old "Desperados" names, but changed it to avoid legal trouble.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dallas_Vigilantes

Does Jerry have a team again ?

No.