Ryan Kalil and Blake Griffin lead rebranding of Monterrey’s Football Team as Osos Monterrey

Former NFL All-Pro Ryan Kalil and NBA All-Star Blake Griffin are stepping off the field and court to revolutionize American football in Mexico. The duo, alongside an ownership group of high-profile athletes, has acquired a controlling stake in a Monterrey-based football team competing in Mexico’s Liga de Fútbol Americano (LFA). With this acquisition, the team, formerly known as Fundidores, has been rebranded as Osos Monterrey, marking the beginning of an ambitious journey to grow the sport’s popularity both locally and internationally.

In a statement, Kalil expressed his passion for the project, noting, “Football isn’t just a game—for many of us, it’s defined who we are.” Griffin added that the rebranding reflects Monterrey’s unique identity and symbolizes resilience, strength, and grit.

A Star-Studded Ownership Group Steps In

Kalil and Griffin aren’t navigating this venture alone. The ownership group includes prominent athletes such as NFL stars Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, and Luke Kuechly, along with Hall of Famer Julius Peppers and celebrated coach Ron Rivera. Former Pro Bowl tight end Greg Olsen and quarterback Sam Darnold are also part of this initiative, blending diverse experiences to propel the team forward.

Beyond athletes, the group includes sports media personalities Dan Katz and Eric Sollenberger, better known as PFT Commenter from the popular podcast “Pardon My Take.” This diverse mix of stakeholders highlights a vision that extends beyond traditional team ownership, emphasizing community engagement, entertainment, and growth for American football in Mexico.

Why the Mexican Market Is Key for American Football

Mexico has long been a significant international market for the NFL, with over 30 million fans passionate about the game. By acquiring and rebranding Monterrey’s team, Kalil and Griffin aim to tap into this enthusiastic audience and expand the sport’s influence within the country. The LFA, as Mexico’s premier American football league, offers a fertile ground for growth, and the new ownership plans to seize the opportunity by focusing on player development, partnerships, and community involvement.

According to Alejandro Jaimes Trujillo, Commissioner of the LFA, the acquisition signifies a pivotal moment in the league’s evolution. “Today marks the start of a new era for American football in Mexico. We are confident that Ryan Kalil, Blake Griffin, and their group will not only strengthen Osos Monterrey but also elevate the league as a whole,” he said.

The Rebranding to Osos Monterrey

The team’s new identity as Osos Monterrey reflects the cultural and geographical essence of Monterrey. Inspired by the black bears native to the Sierra Madre mountains, the name “Osos” resonates with qualities such as strength, resilience, and determination. Griffin emphasized that the rebranding is more than cosmetic; it aims to foster a deeper connection with fans and highlight Monterrey’s identity on a global stage.

The rebranding also ushers in a broader strategy to build the team’s legacy. The new ownership plans to invest in grassroots development, enhance training facilities, and amplify fan experiences through innovative engagement initiatives.

A Documentary to Chronicle the Journey

Kalil and Griffin’s production company, Mortal Media, is producing a documentary to capture the team’s transformation. The project, in collaboration with award-winning filmmakers Jason Sterman and Brian McGinn, will chronicle the challenges and triumphs of building a football team in a burgeoning league. The film will explore the dedication of players, the passion of fans, and the unique challenges of managing a professional sports franchise outside the United States.

Mortal Media has an impressive portfolio, including acclaimed projects with Netflix, Disney, and FX. The documentary aims to provide an in-depth look at the intersection of sports, culture, and ambition.

Building on a Championship Foundation

Founded in 2017, the Monterrey football team has already made waves in the LFA, winning its first championship in 2022 under Head Coach Jorge “Pelón” Valdez. Known for its high-powered offense, the team has consistently ranked as one of the league’s best, featuring standout players such as quarterback Shelton Eppler and tight end Tommy Auger.

Valdez, who holds the collegiate all-time tackles record for Auténticos Tigres UANL, has been instrumental in shaping the team’s competitive spirit. The rebranding under Kalil and Griffin seeks to build on this success while expanding the team’s reach and appeal.

A New Era for American Football in Mexico

With their diverse backgrounds in sports and entertainment, Kalil and Griffin are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between American football and Mexican culture. Their vision extends beyond wins and losses, focusing on building a sustainable legacy that resonates with fans, players, and the community.

As the LFA grows in stature, the transformation of Osos Monterrey serves as a blueprint for how professional sports can adapt and thrive in international markets. For Kalil and Griffin, this is more than an investment—it’s a chance to redefine what American football can achieve in Mexico.