(Joe Faraoni/ESPN Images)
ESPN’s UFL schedule gets underway on Sunday, March 30, with an afternoon doubleheader as part of the league’s 2025 kickoff weekend to bring fans inside the action like never before.
From unprecedented sideline access to innovative technology and engaging storytelling, ESPN’s collaboration with the UFL offers fans a unique viewing experience.
Before the league’s second season kicks into action, Bryan Jaroch, ESPN Vice President, Sports Production, takes Front Row inside some of the key elements that make ESPN’s UFL presentation unique.
1. ACCESS: “The UFL on ESPN always starts with the idea of how to bring fans at home inside the game in new and engaging ways. The microphones on players and coaches, the transparency of the review process with the replay command center, and the ability to talk with players and coaches live on the sideline at any time, that combination is unprecedented across sports.”
Step onto the field with the Arlington Renegades pic.twitter.com/l8dsY1CLRe
— United Football League (@TheUFL) March 25, 2025
(Read more on ESPN’s access and commentator teams)
2. TECHNOLOGY: This has always been a league where we’ve been able to try new things. Whether that’s the MindFly Chest Cam, players and analysts immediately breaking down a key play with iPads on the sideline, or tracking innovative player data, we continue pushing the envelope to create an unmatched viewing experience.
Got to see some pretty cool new toys in Arlington today for the upcoming @ufl season with unprecedented access in 2025. Season is right around the corner! @JRodgers11 @JoeTessESPN @TheSamAcho #SpringFootball pic.twitter.com/TQFHPvIuZi
— Tom Luginbill (@TomLuginbill) March 12, 2025
The future of football is now
Our new groundbreaking FAST division will test & launch tech innovations to transform how the game is played, coached, and experienced.
— United Football League (@TheUFL) March 14, 2025
(Read more about technology across the UFL)
3. HUMANIZE, THEN ANALYZE: This is a core approach across all our productions. We strive to dive deeper into these players’ stories and create meaningful connections with fans. What is their motivation for playing? What is their end goal?
It’s exciting to see over the next 12 weeks who will be the emerging stars. Who will be the next [former Michigan Panthers and now Detroit Lions kicker] Jake Bates to make it to the NFL and make a splash in the league? Who will be the next “Deestroying” [social media placekicking sensation Donald De La Haye], who is returning from injury to the San Antonio Brahmas this season to create more can’t-miss moments?
The UFL is the league of opportunity and allows us a great platform for showcasing these stories through our access and technology.
