A Brief History of the Memphis Express

Memphis Express

The Memphis Express was a professional American football franchise based in Memphis, Tennessee, that competed in the short-lived Alliance of American Football (AAF) in 2019. Despite the league’s brief existence, the Express left a mark on the Memphis sports scene, bringing professional football back to ABC8 the city and offering fans an exciting brand of football.

Formation and Inaugural Season:

The Express was one of the eight founding teams of the AAF, which aimed to provide a developmental league for players hoping to reach the NFL. The team was announced in 2018, with former NFL player and head coach Mike Singletary taking the helm as head coach. Singletary, a Hall of Fame linebacker known for his intensity and leadership, brought instant credibility to the franchise.

The Express played their home games at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium, a venue with a rich history of hosting football games. The team’s colors were red, blue, and white.

On the Field:

The Express’s inaugural season was a rollercoaster ride. The team struggled initially, losing their first five games. However, they showed resilience and improved as the season progressed. Notable players for the Express included quarterbacks Zach Mettenberger and Johnny Manziel, who joined the team mid-season and generated significant media attention. Other key players included running back Zac Stacy and wide receiver Reece Horn.

Despite the presence of recognizable names, the Express struggled to find consistency on the field. The team’s offense sputtered at times, while the defense had moments of brilliance but also struggled with consistency.

Coaching and Management:

Mike Singletary’s presence as head coach was a major draw for the Express. His experience as a player and coach in the NFL brought a level of professionalism and expertise to the team. However, even Singletary couldn’t overcome all the challenges the team faced.

Off the field, the Express were led by team president Kosha Irby. The team’s management worked hard to build a fan base in Memphis and create a positive game-day experience.

The Demise of the AAF:

Unfortunately, the AAF faced significant financial difficulties and abruptly ceased operations in April 2019, just eight weeks into its inaugural season. The sudden collapse of the league brought an end to the Memphis Express’s brief existence.

Legacy:

Although the Memphis Express existed for only a short time, they provided Memphis football fans with a taste of professional football. The team’s games were generally well-attended, and the presence of players like Manziel and Mettenberger generated excitement in the city.

The Express’s legacy is intertwined with the larger story of the AAF. While the league ultimately failed, it provided opportunities for players to showcase their talents and gave fans an alternative football experience. The Memphis Express, despite its short tenure, remains a part of Memphis’s sports history.