AFL Founding in 1960
Founded in 1959 as the Boston Patriots, a charter member of the AFL.
The franchise was founded in 1959 as the Boston Patriots, a charter member of the American Football League (AFL). It joined the NFL in 1970 through the AFL–NFL merger. In 1971 the team moved into a new stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, and was renamed the New England Patriots on March 22, 1971, to reflect its new location.
Quick Facts
- League affiliation
- American Football League (AFL) - Original Member
- Founding year
- 1960
- Original home city
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Founder
- Billy Sullivan
Did You Know?
- Tom Brady started 283 regular season games and 41 postseason games for the Patriots, both NFL records with a single team.
- Steve Grogan set the season record for quarterback rushing touchdowns in 1976, which stood for 35 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary goal of the Patriots' founding in 1960?
The team was created specifically to challenge the existing NFL establishment and deliver pro football to the Northeast region. Sullivan aimed to build a competitive roster from scratch rather than simply expanding an existing league structure.
Who served as the first head coach of the Boston Patriots?
Lou Saban was hired as the franchise's inaugural head coach when it launched in 1960. He led the team during its early years while it navigated the competitive landscape of the new AFL.
Why is the 1960 founding considered a pivotal moment for American sports?
This event was a declaration that the NFL did not own professional football, directly setting the stage for future competition. The resulting rivalry between the leagues eventually forced a historic merger that reshaped the entire industry.
Where were the Boston Patriots based when they joined the AFL?
The franchise was originally headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, serving as its home city upon joining the league in 1960. This location allowed them to tap into a major Northeast market that had been neglected by other pro teams.
More in Club History & Eras
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