KC Reporter

Years after the historic merger of the AFL and NFL, Lamar Hunt reflected on the negotiations that shaped modern professional football. As he assisted Jim Perry in writing an article for the Super Bowl XXV game program, Hunt recalled vivid memories from two decades prior.

"I still think of it as the AFL and the NFL," Hunt expressed in a document sent to Perry. Following their merger, the AFL was renamed the "American Football Conference" (AFC).

By 1966, both leagues faced challenges due to competition for college players, leading to 107 common draft choices between them. The NFL signed 79 players while the AFL secured 28, achieving parity given their team ratio.

Key factors in persuading the NFL to engage in talks included the AFL's success in signing talent, new stadiums, strong ownership, growing fanbase—especially in New York—and a five-year NBC-TV contract starting in 1965.

One significant issue during negotiations was managing competing franchises in New York and San Francisco. Decisions regarding teams like the New York Jets and Giants or Oakland Raiders and San Francisco 49ers were critical.

Hunt insisted all AFL teams must be included for talks to proceed. His initial note with Tex Schramm emphasized "NY and Oakland stay." Meanwhile, Giants' Wellington Mara and Lou Spaidia of the 49ers demanded satisfaction for any merger involving another team entering their areas.

The Jets gained popularity with Joe Namath at Shea Stadium as Giants struggled at Yankee Stadium. In contrast, Raiders thrived with a new stadium while 49ers lagged behind.

The next installment will explore how New York and San Francisco franchises coexisted post-merger.