Columbus Poised to Become US Sports Epicenter by 2028

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, February 21st 2026 at 12:38 GMT by Cleveland.com
      Locales: Ohio, UNITED STATES

Columbus, Ohio: Poised to Become the Epicenter of American Sports in 2028

Columbus, Ohio is rapidly transforming into a major player in the North American professional sports scene, and by 2028, the city is projected to achieve a feat no other US city has accomplished: representation from all five of the major leagues - Major League Baseball (MLB), the National Football League (NFL), the National Basketball Association (NBA), the National Hockey League (NHL), and Major League Soccer (MLS). This isn't merely about adding another team; it's about a comprehensive ascension that positions Columbus as a true sporting capital.

Currently, Ohio already boasts a rich sporting heritage. The state is deeply invested in both professional and collegiate athletics. Columbus itself is already home to the Columbus Blue Jackets of the NHL and the highly successful Columbus Crew of MLS - the first MLS franchise in the state and a consistent contender. The city also benefits from proximity to, and enthusiastic support for, the Cleveland Guardians and Cincinnati Reds of MLB. And, critically, it's home to the immensely popular and nationally recognized Ohio State Buckeyes, who dominate the college football landscape. However, the Buckeyes, while a cultural and sporting institution, operate within the NCAA system, meaning Columbus still lacks a dedicated NFL franchise.

The missing piece of the puzzle is an NFL team. While the state has been fervently lobbying for an NFL franchise for decades, a dedicated team hasn't materialized. However, recent shifts in league dynamics and a demonstrable growth in Columbus's economic and demographic profile are dramatically increasing the likelihood. Several expansion possibilities are being openly discussed within the NFL, and Columbus is consistently ranked among the frontrunners. A key factor is the city's burgeoning population, a diverse economy, and a rapidly growing corporate base willing to invest in both stadium infrastructure and team ownership. Several prominent local business leaders have already signaled their intent to participate in a potential ownership group.

The arrival of an NFL team would be a watershed moment, not just for Columbus, but for the entire state of Ohio. It would create thousands of jobs - from construction and stadium operations to hospitality and tourism. The economic ripple effects would be felt across numerous sectors. A recent study commissioned by the Columbus Chamber of Commerce estimates that an NFL team could add upwards of $1 billion annually to the regional economy. This figure takes into account direct spending by the team, fan expenditures on tickets, merchandise, and travel, and the increased revenue generated by local businesses.

Beyond the economic impact, the cultural ramifications are equally significant. A fully represented Columbus would offer residents a diverse and year-round sports entertainment experience. Imagine a winter dominated by Blue Jackets hockey, spring filled with baseball from nearby Cleveland and Cincinnati, a summer of Crew soccer, and an autumn consumed by both the Buckeyes and a new NFL team. This continuous sporting calendar would enhance the city's vibrancy and appeal, attracting both residents and visitors.

However, logistical challenges remain. The biggest hurdle is securing a suitable stadium location and funding. Discussions are underway regarding potential sites, including areas near downtown and expanding existing infrastructure. Public-private partnerships will likely be crucial in financing the project, requiring careful negotiation and community support. Traffic management, parking, and the impact on surrounding neighborhoods are also key considerations.

The 2028 timeline is ambitious but achievable. The MLS team announcement, expected within the next year, would provide a significant momentum boost. Following that, the NFL expansion process could unfold relatively quickly, potentially culminating in a team awarded by 2026 or 2027, allowing sufficient time for stadium construction and team building before the 2028 season. Columbus's proactive approach to attracting and supporting professional sports, coupled with its demonstrable growth, positions it uniquely to capitalize on this opportunity. The city is no longer simply hoping to join the ranks of elite sporting cities; it's actively building the foundation to lead them.