Houston Oilers Move to Tennessee in 1997

Historic Football Team's Relocation Leaves Lasting Legacy

Breaking News: Former Houston Oilers Franchise Now Known as Tennessee Titans

Houston, TX - The Houston Oilers, a beloved professional American football team for over 36 years, has officially relocated to Tennessee and will now be known as the Tennessee Titans. The move, effective January 1, 1997, marks the end of an era for the city of Houston and the Oilers organization.

Founded in 1960 as a member of the American Football League (AFL), the Houston Oilers established themselves as a formidable force on the gridiron. The team enjoyed numerous successful seasons, including AFL championships in 1960 and 1961 and numerous playoff appearances. In 1970, the AFL and NFL merged, and the Oilers became part of the American Football Conference (AFC).

Despite their on-field successes, the Oilers faced financial challenges in Houston. In 1995, the team filed for bankruptcy and was eventually purchased by Bud Adams, a Houston businessman and Oilers fan. Adams expressed his desire to keep the team in Houston, but negotiations with the city over a new stadium fell through.

In December 1996, Adams announced his intention to move the team to Nashville, Tennessee, where a new stadium was being built. The move was met with disappointment and anger from Oilers fans in Houston, but the NFL approved the relocation and the team began play in Tennessee in 1997.

The Oilers' legacy in Houston remains strong. The team's former home, the Astrodome, is now a multi-purpose facility known as NRG Stadium and continues to host sporting events and concerts. The Oilers' contributions to the city and to the sport of football will be forever remembered by fans and residents alike.