The XFL was first launched in 2001 as a joint venture between NBC Sports and WWE chairman Vince McMahon. The league was a radical departure from the NFL, with rule changes designed to make the game faster and more exciting. However, it struggled to find an audience, and after just one season, it was canceled.
In 2018, Vince McMahon announced that the XFL would be returning, with a new season set to kick off in 2020. It featured 8 teams and a 10-week season, with games broadcast on major networks such as ABC and Fox. However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced the league to suspend its season after just five weeks, and in April 2020, it was announced that the XFL had filed for bankruptcy.
However, in August 2020, the XFL was given a new lease on life after being purchased by a group led by actor and former WWE star Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. The new owners announced that the league would be returning for a new season in 2023, with an expanded schedule and a commitment to innovation and fan engagement.
With the return of the XFL, many sportsbooks are now offering betting odds on the league, including spreads, totals, moneylines, and even XFL Champion futures. This article will go over the current odds for the XFL Championship after an exciting opening week and provide a mini-analysis of the rosters.
A Look at XFL Championship Futures Odds
The XFL made its long-awaited return in February 2023, right after the Super Bowl ended. With it comes a fresh batch of teams vying for the coveted championship title.
Betting enthusiasts can get in on the action early by placing bets on the XFL Championship futures odds for their favorite teams. The XFL is looking to take a chunk of the $80 billion+ betting market with its return to action.
So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the current XFL Championship futures odds for each team.
Arlington Renegades (+400)
The Arlington Renegades are a new team in the XFL and are the current co-favorites to win the XFL Championship. They will be looking to make a statement in their inaugural season by bringing the championship home to Texas. The team is led by head coach Bob Stoops, who had a successful career in the NCAA, and features quarterback Drew Plitt and running back Keith Ford.
Houston Roughnecks (+400)
The Houston Roughnecks had a strong showing in 2020, winning all five of their games before the season was cut short. Head coach Wade Phillips (a Houston legend) and quarterback Brandon Silvers will be looking to pick up where they left off and bring the championship home to Houston.
St. Louis BattleHawks (+450)
The St. Louis Battlehawks were a fan favorite in the 2020 season. They are expected to make a strong showing again in 2023, with some books having them as the favorites to win it all. The team has a new coach in Anthony Becht and a talented roster across the board, with key players like quarterback A.J. McCarron and running back Kareem Walker.
DC Defenders (+475)
The DC Defenders round out the top four in championship odds at +475. With the leadership of head coach Reggie Barlow, quarterback D’Eriq King, and rookie running back Abram Smith, the team is poised to build on their impressive 2020 season.
Seattle Sea Dragons (+650)
The Seattle Sea Dragons are new to the XFL, and they are considered the second favorite to win the title. With former NFL player and coach Jim Haslett as their head coach, the team is expected to make waves in the league. Key players include quarterback Ben DiNucci and wide receiver Josh Gordon, who was at one point considered the best WR in the league.
Vegas Vipers (+700)
The Vegas Vipers are middle of the pack in the championship odds listing. Led by new head coach Rod Woodson, an NFL veteran of 17 years, the Vipers will be looking to leverage his vast experience in the league. The team’s roster includes quarterback Aaron Murray and former NFL star running back Rod Smith, both of which who will be instrumental in the team’s quest for the championship. Can the Vipers come out on top in 2023? Only time will tell.
San Antonio Brahmas (+800)
The San Antonio Brahmas are the underdogs to win the championship at +650. Hines Ward is set to make a coaching debut, as he has taken over as the new head coach. Quarterback Jack Coan and running back Kalen Ballage are among the key players from the lineup.
Orlando Guardians (+1500)
The Orlando Guardians are gearing up for a comeback, led by their new head coach Terrell Buckley. With a roster packed full of talent and featuring as many as four running backs (including the legendary Kelvin Taylor), the team is set to do well in the XFL. Paxton Lynch was started at quarterback for Week 1, but was benched after a poor performance. Though they are longshots to win it all, you never know with a league as new as the XFL.
