Twin Cities Football Players:

Pre-Register Now & Lock In Your Spot!

Still got that fire to play? Whether you're fresh off the field or it’s been a season or two, the DFA Developmental Football Association gives you a real chance to get back in the game. It’s full-contact, high-energy football with serious competition, great coaching, and a league built for players who aren’t done yet.

Kick off Spring 2026!

OUR VISION

DFA Developmental Football Association’s mission is to revolutionize the minor league football landscape by providing a premier developmental platform for adult football players. We are committed to fostering top-tier talent and offering unparalleled opportunities for growth, both on and off the field. Through innovative partnerships, community engagement, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, we strive to enhance player careers, enrich local communities, and ignite passion for the game of football across the Twin Cities and beyond.

WHO WILL PLAY FOR THE DFA?

DFA Developmental Football Association is tailored to meet the needs of a diverse range of players, each at different stages in their football journey but united by a common goal of advancing their careers and personal growth through the sport.

ASPIRING PROFESIONALS

  • Description: Players looking to progress to paid professional arena leagues.


  • Benefits: Exposure to scouts, competitive play, and media visibility that enhance their prospects & builds a player’s personal brand.

COMMUNITY COLLEGE ATHLETES

  • Description: Athletes seeking competitive play while attending community college, using the league as a stepping stone to university-level sports.


  • Benefits: Provides a structured, competitive environment that helps bridge the gap to higher education sports programs while maintaining academic eligibility.

FORMER FOOTBALL PLAYERS

  • Description: Individuals who love the game, have the skills-set and desire to continue playing at a competitive, organized level.


  • Benefits: Opportunities to engage in high-level football beyond youth and college, fostering lifelong fitness, teamwork, and personal satisfaction.

ARE YOU READY?

Don’t miss your chance to be part of something truly special! The DFA Developmental Football Association is gearing up for an unforgettable season and we want you on our team. Whether you’re aiming to showcase your skills on the field, strategize victories as a coach, or contribute to our league’s success behind the scenes, it’s time to step up to the plate. Join our waiting list today to get exclusive updates, early access to registration, and a front-row seat to all the action. Ready to make your mark? Sign up now and let the excitement begin!

LEAGUE AT A GLANCE

TEAMS AND LOCATIONS:

  • We will begin with 4 inaugural teams depending the amount of interested players. Teams will roster 55 players each and represent a specific area within the greater Minneapolis-Saint Paul area, fostering natural local pride and community support.

COMMUNITY INTEGRATION:

  • Local Partnerships:
    Collaboration with local businesses, schools, and community organizations to promote sportsmanship and community welfare.

  • Youth Programs:
    Initiatives to engage young athletes, providing mentorship and development pathways.

MEDIA & ENGAGEMENT:

  • Dynamic Media Strategy:
    Leveraging modern digital platforms to maximize visibility and fan interaction.

  • Regular Content Production:
    High-quality broadcasts of games, behind-the-scenes footage, highlights and player stories to keep the community and scouts connected and informed.

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT:

  • Focus on Adult Players:
    Dedicated programs designed to enhance skills, promote professional growth, and transition players to higher levels of play.

  • Character and Leadership Development:

    Emphasizing positive camaraderie and the creation of a supportive environment where players grow as individuals and teammates.

  • Belonging and Legacy:
    Encouraging players to take pride in their teams and communities, fostering a sense of belonging that motivates them to be their best on and off the field.

  • Comprehensive Support:
    Access to top coaching, wellness resources, and life skills training to help build well-rounded individuals.

LEAGUE ROADMAP FOR 2025-2026

The DFA Developmental Football Association has a focused timeline to launch a dynamic and impactful inaugural season. With a well-structured sequence of events leading up to and through the competitive season, our plan ensures a robust and thrilling sports experience for players and fans alike—all within a 12-week window.

SECURE FACILITIES - JUNE 2025

  • Details: Finalize agreements for game and practice venues to ensure top-notch facilities are ready for use.

RECRUIT STAFF - JULY 2025

  • Details: Hire essential league and team staff coaches and GMs, and recruit volunteers to support operations on game days.

RECRUIT PLAYERS - AUGUST 2025

  • Details: Begin extensive marketing and outreach to attract skilled players through combines, social media, and sports networks.

MERCHANDISE & AFFILIATE LAUNCH - OCTOBER 2025

  • Details: Start merchandise sales with an affiliate marketing strategy to boost early revenue, build brand loyalty & allow all league participants to earn commissions.

SECURE SPONSORSHIPS - DECEMBER 2025

  • Details: Partner with local and national businesses to secure financial and promotional support for each team.

LEAGUE COMBINE AND PLAYER TRYOUTS - JANUARY 2026

  • Details: Evaluate player skills and fitness through combines and tryouts to prepare for the draft.

DRAFT DAY - FEBRUARY 2026

  • Details: Conduct the player draft, creating excitement and media coverage as teams take shape. Large draft day event.

PRACTICE BEGINS - MARCH 2026

  • Details: Begin training camps to develop team strategies and player cohesion.

SEASON LAUNCH - APRIL 2026

  • Details: Kick off the inaugural season with a full schedule of competitive games.

PLAYOFFS - JULY 2026

  • Details: Conduct a two-week playoff of teams and seed them based on record.

DFA CHAMPIONSHIP - AUGUST 2026

  • Details: League’s inaugural championship game featuring the top team from the east and the top team from the west.

ALL-STAR GAME & NATIONAL SHOWCASE - JANUARY 2027

  • Details: Conduct the all-star game and participate in a national 11-man football game to showcase league talent nationally.

JOIN THE ACTION!

Seize the opportunity! This is your invitation to join the exhilarating new season of the DFA Developmental Football Association: Twin Cities. We are calling all enthusiasts—players, coaches, and team staff alike—to bring their passion and prowess to our dynamic league. By joining our waiting list, you'll receive not only priority updates but also early-bird access to registration, ensuring you’re always at the heart of the excitement. Are you ready to leave your mark on the game? Register today and be part of the thrilling journey that awaits in the DFA Developmental Football Association.

tHE RUNDOWN

  • SAY GOODBYE TO TRAVEL
    Details: All games are conducted at one location.

  • TOUGH COMPETITION
    Details: We will work tirelessly to ensure this league has the best 220 players possible playing in this league. This will add parody and the highest levels of competition possible. We want each game to be close, fair, competitive, and exciting.

  • MONETIZE YOUR GAME
    Details: DFA offers more than just competitive play. Participants including players and coaches can earn through our affiliate program on referrals for merchandise, tickets, and sponsorships. Additionally, use our high-quality content on your personal social media to enhance your branding and earn further. Join us, and gain financially while you grow professionally.

  • LOOK GOOD PLAY GOOD
    Details: We prioritize excellence in every aspect of our league’s presentation—from professionally designed uniforms to high-quality game films and photographs. Our polished appearance enhances the experience for players, fans, and sponsors, creating more opportunities for everyone involved.

  • THE THRILL LEAGUE: DFA'S DYNAMIC PLAY

    Details: Dive into the heart of DFA where excitement reigns. From the strategic thrill of our Player draft to dynamic in-season trades, we foster a vibrant league atmosphere. Experience the camaraderie that turns teammates into family and competition that drives excellence. We're not just playing football; we're building better men in a fun, family-oriented environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Official DFA Player Information & FAQ

What is the DFA?

The Developmental Football Association (DFA) is a professionally operated adult football league launching in Spring 2026, created for players who still have the drive to compete, improve, and grow.
The league delivers structure, coaching, exposure, and opportunity through a consistent, high-quality game-day experience.

How much does it cost to play?

Player dues are approximately $300 for the 2026 season.
This fee helps cover:

- Two custom uniforms

- Referee and stadium rental costs

- League software and operations

- Field rental insurance

- Winter practice facility costs

How much does it cost to attend the DFA Combine?

The official DFA Combine registration fee is $39.
This includes your full evaluation, testing, and eligibility for the DFA Draft and/or Free Agency.

What equipment do I need?

Players are responsible for providing their own helmet, shoulder pads, cleats, and mouthguard.
All players are required to wear a traditional black glossy helmet with a black facemask to maintain a professional and uniform appearance across the league.

What does a DFA player receive?

Every DFA player gains access to a structured, professional-level experience that includes:

- Two custom uniforms by Prodigy X Sports

- One in-person team practice each week

- One online film session each week

- Full game film and highlights

- Affiliate commission opportunities

- Professional game-day production and coverage

- Player Portal access with resources for entrepreneurship, NIL, and leadership

- Strength, conditioning, and nutrition guidance
- 15 Game Tickets to Resell or Give Away

Who is the DFA designed for?

The DFA is built for motivated athletes, including:

- Aspiring professionals seeking exposure and advancement

- College-age players staying game-ready during offseasons

- Former players who want to continue competing at a high level

- Community-driven leaders who want to mentor others through the game

Where and when are DFA games played?

The DFA features four inaugural teams, with games rotating between premier Twin Cities facilities:

- Shakopee High School (Shakopee, MN)

- Northwestern College (St. Paul, MN)

- Minneapolis North High School (Minneapolis, MN)

- TCO Stadium at Viking Lakes (Eagan, MN)

Dates and times vary by week, with most games played on Saturdays.

When does the season take place?

December – February: Official DFA Combines

End of February / Early March (TBD): DFA Draft & Free Agency

March: Practices and team preparation begin

April – August: Regular Season

July: Playoffs

August: DFA Championship

January 2027: All-Star Game & National Showcase

How does the DFA Draft and Free Agency work?

Each of the four DFA teams for the 2026 season may sign up to 15 players of their choosing before the draft.
These players will forgo the 2026 DFA Draft and are considered official pre-draft signings.

All remaining eligible players will enter the DFA Draft Pool, which will take place at the end of February or early March 2026 (TBD).


Players not selected in the draft may still be added later through Free Agency or assigned via the DFA Draft Lottery.

Can players earn money in the DFA?

Yes. The DFA offers an Affiliate and Commission Program that allows players, coaches, and fans to earn income while promoting the league.

- 10% on merchandise sales

- 20% on ticket and sponsorship referrals

Players also receive 15 Special Player Passes to give away or sell for $20 each — keeping 100% of profits ($300 total potential).

What makes the DFA different from traditional semi-pro football?

- Professionally structured league — not dependent on individual team owners

- Consistent, centralized venues with music, announcers, and fans

- Pro-level uniforms and branding by Prodigy X Sports

- Organized code of conduct and accountability system

- Real exposure opportunities through league partnerships

- Full media coverage, highlights, and film access

How often do teams practice?

Each team practices once per week, beginning in March 2026, and participates in an additional online film session each week.


Practice times and locations are set by each team’s Head Coach and General Manager.

Who are the DFA teams?

Northwest Nightwolves – Sherburne, Isanti & Wright Counties

Minneapolis Warhawks – Hennepin & Anoka Counties

Twin Cities Tundra – Carver, Dakota & Scott Counties

East Side Engine – Ramsey, Washington & Chisago Counties

How do I join the DFA?

To begin your journey:

Complete the Pre-Registration Form at dfa.football/player-pre-registration.

Attend an official DFA Combine to get evaluated.

Enter the DFA Draft and/or Free Agency Pool.

Get signed, drafted, or assigned to a team.

What is the culture of the DFA?

The DFA is built on brotherhood, discipline, and purpose.


Players are expected to represent their teams, families, and communities with integrity.


This league is about more than football — it’s about personal growth, professionalism, and opportunity.

DON'T WAIT—ACT NOW!

Secure your spot in the DFA Developmental Football Association today. This is your chance to become part of a community that celebrates talent, teamwork, and triumph. Click below to sign up and join our league of extraordinary players, coaches, and enthusiasts. Embrace your potential, experience the thrill, and be the game-changer we know you can be. Sign up now—your journey to greatness starts here!