States Developmental Football League (SDFL)
A new developmental football program with a revolutionary purpose: to prepare
our athletes for future success -- on and off the field. The SDFL program combines league-based professional football with programs designed to equip our players with skills they will need to be successful in their post-football lives. 

This year, 16,175 college football players were
eligible for the NFL draft.

For the other 15,900+, an uncertain future stretches
out ahead: a future of life after football.

The States Developmental Football League (SDFL)
represents a new vision for professional football.

By combining league-based professional football with business, financial, and life development courses, we equip our players with the skills they will need to be
successful in their post-football lives. 

Our vision and business models were presented to some of the top professors at Babson College in Wellesley, Massachusetts, during the Babson Executive Education & NFLPA Trust 301 Growing your business program in 2017. They loved the concept and asked why it had never been done before. Babson is considered one of the top entrepreneurial colleges in the world and has produced some notable alumni like Edsel Ford II Director, of Ford Motor Company, Daniel Frank Gerber, Founder of Gerber Products Company and Arthur M. Blank, Co-founder of Home Depot and Owner of the Atlanta Falcons. 

Co Founder & Commissioner Garrick Jones with other former NFL players and Senior Lecturer Edward P. Marram

B.S., M.S., University of Massachusetts  Ph.D., Tufts University

"This business model that you have is scary in a great way." - SDFL business mentor Professor Larry Carr Faculty Co - Director

B.A., Marist College  M.A., M.B.A., Union College  Ph.D., Union College

The SDFL is made up of 4 teams, with a plan to expand to at least 16 by the year 2030. Each year, our teams compete to win the SDFL Bowl.

SDFL games are played following 11-man, NFL rules and regulations.
Tryouts are held in the spring of each year to fill any vacancies in our teams from the following season.

SDFL’s mission extends far beyond the whistle.
We offer programs that equip our athletes for success --
on and off the field.

The SDFL has been in operation since 2012, carefully beta testing each aspect of our league to ensure feasibility and a high-quality experience for our players, their families, and our fans alike. Now, we’re ready to launch the very first full season of SDFL football in 2026. From there, we’ll work on expanding the SDFL league to new cities each year, with a goal of hitting 16 teams in 2030.

Want to know more about the future of SDFL and how you can be involved?
Request access to the Business Plan tab of this profile, and let’s talk! 

Garrick Jones  Charman

Mr. Jones is the founder of 73 Holdings LLC and the Managing General Partner of The Alliance. Garrick a multifaceted talent who seamlessly transitioned from a remarkable NFL and CFL career to a thriving role as the CEO of 73 Holdings LLC, Garrick Jones stands tall at 6'5" and hails from North Little Rock, Arkansas.

His journey from the gridiron to the boardroom is a testament to his unwavering dedication and unmatched prowess. On the field, Garrick Jones made a memorable mark as an offensive lineman, guarding quarterbacks for renowned teams such as the Houston Texans, Kansas City Chiefs, Atlanta Falcons, and Jacksonville Jaguars in the NFL. He also proudly represented the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Edmonton Eskimos, and Calgary Stampeders in the CFL. His relentless work ethic and commitment to excellence propelled him to the pinnacle of professional football.

Beyond his gridiron feats, Jones has an equally impressive professional track record. He served as the Vice President of the NFL Players Association Houston Chapter, where he advocated for the rights and well-being of fellow athletes. Today, he serves as the visionary President of the Huddle Up Foundation, a testament to his commitment to philanthropy and community development. His tireless efforts in this domain earned him the prestigious distinction of "Garrick Jones Day" on October 25, 2005, recognized by the city of Houston for his outstanding contributions to the community. Currently, as the CEO of 73 Holdings LLC, Garrick Jones spearheads a conglomerate that includes groundbreaking entities like The FanCentric DAO and the esteemed private equity fund, 73 SARE, in which he is a general partner. The FanCentric DAO revolutionizes fan engagement in the digital age, while 73 SARE drives innovation and investment in promising ventures. Garrick's ability to identify and nurture opportunities has solidified his reputation as a visionary leader in the business world.

Not content to rest on his laurels, Garrick Jones is also a co-founder of the States Developmental Football League, a platform dedicated to nurturing emerging football talent. His involvement in ESF Capital, which houses The Alliance and operates as a generational wealth office with a private investment club membership component, further underscores his commitment to empowering individuals and communities through strategic investment.

In the dynamic landscape of sports and business, Garrick Jones has not only excelled but has become a beacon of inspiration for those who aspire to transcend boundaries and redefine success.

Byron Clay  Commissioner

Byron K. Clay is a multifaceted individual with a diverse background encompassing various fields of expertise. As the Commissioner and Co-Founder of the States Developmental Football League (SDFL), Clay brings a wealth of experience and talent to his role. With a history as a former professional football player, he understands the intricacies of the game and the dedication required for success at the highest level.

Clay's athletic prowess extends beyond the football field, as he also boasts a distinguished career as a world-class track athlete. His exceptional skills and competitive spirit have propelled him to excellence in multiple arenas, setting him apart as a true athlete of remarkable caliber.

In addition to his athletic achievements, Clay possesses a keen business acumen and marketing expertise. With a background in healthcare and business development, he brings a unique perspective to the SDFL, leveraging his skills to drive growth and success for the league and its teams.

Clay's role as Commissioner of the SDFL places him at the forefront of the organization's leadership, where his visionary approach and strategic thinking guide the league towards continued success. Supported by private investors and diversified revenue streams, Clay is instrumental in shaping the SDFL into a premier professional football league.

With his unparalleled blend of athletic talent, business acumen, and leadership skills, Byron K. Clay is poised to lead the SDFL to new heights, developing championship-caliber teams in every state and cementing the league's status as a powerhouse in the world of professional football.

Ty "Tex" Twine  President

Ty "Tex" Twine is a distinguished figure at the intersection of finance and sports, renowned for his exceptional contributions to both industries. As the President of the States Developmental Football League (SDFL), Twine brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his leadership role.

With a prominent presence in the finance sector, Twine serves as the Managing Partner of ESF Capital Group, where he has earned a reputation for his astute financial acumen and innovative strategies. His visionary approach has propelled ESF Capital Group to the forefront of the industry, establishing it as a prominent player in the realm of sports finance.

In addition to his role at ESF Capital Group, Twine is the Founder of Tex Tank, a pioneering startup advisory studio dedicated to nurturing and supporting emerging businesses. His entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to innovation have made Tex Tank a beacon of opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs in various sectors, including sports and media.

Twine's influence extends beyond traditional finance, as he is actively involved in disruptive initiatives and is associated with G6 ESF Capital Group, where he spearheads groundbreaking projects that redefine the landscape of sports finance and investment.

As President of the SDFL, Twine leverages his diverse professional background and leadership roles to steer the league towards success and growth. His strategic vision and unparalleled expertise empower the SDFL to thrive as a premier platform for developing talent and fostering excellence in the world of football.

Ty "Tex" Twine's remarkable achievements in finance and sports underscore his status as a trailblazer and influential leader. With his unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence, Twine continues to leave an indelible mark on both industries, shaping the future of sports finance and the SDFL alike.