DFA COMBINE 2026 REGISTRATION

Get Verified. Get Seen. Get Drafted

Saturday, January 24th • 6 PM – 9 PM
Check-In Opens at 5:30 PM

Adrenaline Sports Center

8310 147 Ln NW, Ramsey, MN 55303

Adrenaline Sports Center

8310 147 Ln NW, Ramsey, MN 55303

DFA COMBINE AGENDA

Every rep counts. Every drill is evaluated. This is your chance to prove you belong.

Arrival and Warm-Up (5:30 PM – 6:15 PM)

Check-In & Registration — 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM
Players arrive, sign in, and receive a number tag, position group assignments, and a briefing for the day.
League Introduction — 6:00 PM to 6:05 PM
Meet DFA staff and coaches. Learn the mission of the league, what the combine measures, and how it connects to the 2026 DFA Draft.
Dynamic Warm-Up — 6:05 PM to 6:15 PM
A guided stretch and mobility session to prepare athletes for performance testing.

Testing and Evaluation (6:15 PM – 7:00 PM)

Speed, Power, and Agility Testing — 45 minutes
Athletes rotate through stations for verified athletic testing:
- 40-Yard Dash
- 20-Yard Dash (OL/DL)
- One-Minute Max Push-Ups
- Broad Jump
- 3-Cone Drill
- 5-10-5 Shuttle

Position-Specific Drills (7:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

Position Work — 45 minutes
Athletes break into position groups for skill evaluation. Coaches assess fundamentals, technique, and game-readiness.
- Quarterbacks: drops, footwork, and accuracy throws
- Running Backs: cone cuts, bag drills, catching, ball security
- Wide Receivers/Tight Ends: route tree, catching, contested plays
- Offensive Line: kick slide, mirror drill, pass protection
- Defensive Line: get-off, rip and swim moves, pass rush
- Linebackers: shuffle-to-fill, coverage, drop drills
- Defensive Backs: backpedal, break on ball, mirror and react

Competition and Wrap-Up (8:00 PM – 9:00 PM)

Competitive Matchups — 25 minutes
Head-to-head reps showcase athleticism and competitiveness:
- WR/TE vs DB
- OL vs DL
- LB vs RB
Team Talk & Q&A — 8:45 PM to 9:00 PM
League staff closes with key takeaways, player instructions, and next steps for the DFA Draft and 2026 season.

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.

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.

OUR HEAD COACHES

DFA Combine Registration Now Open!

Showcase your athleticism through verified testing, position drills, and competition reps.
This is your opportunity to earn your spot in the league built for serious players.

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.

LEAGUE ROADMAP FOR 2025

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 COMBINES AND PLAYER TRYOUTS - DECEMBER 2025 & 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.

Your path to the 2026 DFA Draft starts here.

Join other top athletes for a professionally run combine designed to measure performance and showcase talent.

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.