The Dallas Desperados were a professional arena football franchise based in Dallas, Texas. They competed in the Arena Football League (AFL) from 2001 until the league’s suspension of operations in 2009. The team was owned by Jerry Jones, the owner of the National Football League's Dallas Cowboys.
History and Operations
- Founding: The Desperados were founded in 2001 as an expansion team of the AFL. Their inaugural season began in the spring of 2002.
- Home Venues: The team played its home games at the American Airlines Center, sharing the arena with the Dallas Mavericks (NBA) and Dallas Stars (NHL). The venue seated approximately 19,200 spectators for arena football configurations.
- Coaching: The Desperados were coached throughout their existence by former NFL quarterback and coach Will McClay, who later served as the Dallas Cowboys’ Director of College Scouting.
Performance
- Regular Season: Over seven active seasons, the Desperados amassed a regular‑season record of 79 wins and 41 losses, ranking among the more successful AFL franchises during that period.
- Playoffs: The team qualified for the playoffs in six of its seven seasons, reaching the AFL championship game (ArenaBowl) once.
- ArenaBowl Appearance: In 2007, the Desperados advanced to ArenaBowl XXI, where they were defeated by the Columbus Destroyers, 56–55.
Notable Players
- Clinton Denson (QB): Served as the primary starting quarterback for multiple seasons, earning AFL All‑Arena honors.
- James Roe (WR): Recognized for his receiving productivity, earning several All‑Arena selections.
- Kurt Warner (briefly): The future NFL Hall of Famer was invited to a tryout with the Desperados in 2005 but did not sign a contract.
Dissolution
- In 2009, the Arena Football League suspended operations and later restructured, leading to the termination of many franchise agreements, including the Dallas Desperados. The team did not return when the league relaunched in 2010.
Legacy The Desperados are remembered for establishing a competitive presence in the AFL and for contributing to the growth of arena football in the Dallas market. Their affiliation with Jerry Jones and the shared use of a major NBA/NHL venue highlighted the cross‑sport promotional opportunities within professional sports ownership.
