Professional football (gridiron) Louis Cardinals moved to Phoenix, Arizona to become the Arizona Cardinals in 1988, while the Houston Oilers very nearly moved to Jacksonville in 1987 before deciding to stay, for the short term, in Houston. In 1993, the NFL began exploring expansion, eyeing five proposals (Baltimore, St. Louis, Memphis, Charlotte and Jacksonville), all of which were in cities that had hosted professional football before. The "Carolina Cougars" (later renamed Carolina Panthers) and Jacksonville Jaguars received franchises to begin play in 1995. At the same time, Al Davis moved the Raiders back to its original home in Oakland for the 1995 season,
Louisville Cardinals football recent news Louisville sported an all chrome red helmet against Florida State University on September 17, 2016. A butterfly design was placed on the back of these specific helmets to give tribute to the late Muhammad Ali. Louisville has honored the jerseys of 18 former players. Their numbers remain active, except Johnny Unitas's No. 16 which was retired in his honor. Louisville has honored the following players. Consensus and unanimous first-team All-Americans in bold. Announced schedules as of May 22, 2017 Louisville Cardinals football The Louisville Cardinals football team represents the University of Louisville in the sport of American football.