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Ranking the popularity of American pro sports teams in the **UK** requires a different approach than China. While basketball (NBA) dominates in China, **American Football (NFL)** is significantly more popular in the UK, driven largely by the long-running London Games (since 2007) and extensive TV coverage (Sky Sports, BBC highlights, ITV, DAZN). The NBA has a solid following, but MLB, NHL, and MLS are much more niche.

Here's a reasonable estimate of the top 20, based on **TV viewership, media coverage, merchandise sales, social media engagement (UK-specific), attendance at London Games, and general fan discourse**:

**Top Tier: NFL Dominance**

1. **Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL):** The undisputed #1 due to their "London home team" status. Playing at least one game (often two) at Wembley/Tottenham every year since 2013 has built a massive, dedicated UK fanbase.

2. **Dallas Cowboys (NFL):** "America's Team" translates globally. Massive brand recognition, historic success, and star power (Dak Prescott, Micah Parsons) ensure huge UK interest and media coverage.

3. **Miami Dolphins (NFL):** Historically popular, reinforced by frequent London appearances (tied for most games played there). Tua Tagovailoa's rise and the exciting offense boost current appeal.

4. **Kansas City Chiefs (NFL):** Skyrocketed with Patrick Mahomes' superstar status and recent dynasty (2 Super Bowls). Arguably the most talked-about team currently alongside the Cowboys.

5. **San Francisco 49ers (NFL):** Iconic brand with a rich history (Montana, Rice, Young). Recent sustained success (Super Bowl appearances) and stars like McCaffrey and Bosa keep them highly relevant.

6. **Green Bay Packers (NFL):** Unique ownership structure, legendary history (Lombardi, Favre, Rodgers), and the "Lambeau Field" mystique resonate strongly with UK fans appreciating tradition.

7. **New England Patriots (NFL):** The Brady/Belichick dynasty created a massive global following. While diminished post-Brady, the brand recognition and legacy remain extremely strong in the UK.

8. **Buffalo Bills (NFL):** Developed a passionate "Bills Mafia UK" following. Frequent London visits, an exciting style of play (Josh Allen), and underdog appeal fuel popularity.

9. **New York Giants (NFL):** Major market team with significant historical success (especially the Parcells/Simms and Coughlin/Manning eras). Large existing fanbase and strong UK media presence.

10. **Chicago Bears (NFL):** Historic franchise ("Monsters of the Midway"), large fanbase, and frequent London appearances solidify their place. Justin Fields/Caleb Williams generate buzz.

**NBA Enters the Chat**

11. **Los Angeles Lakers (NBA):** The clear NBA leader in the UK. LeBron James' global stardom, the iconic brand, and Kobe Bryant's legacy ensure massive recognition and media coverage.

12. **Golden State Warriors (NBA):** Stephen Curry's revolutionary impact and their recent dynasty make them the NBA's current #2 in the UK. Exciting style translates well.

13. **Chicago Bulls (NBA):** Michael Jordan's legacy is eternal and transcends generations. Iconic brand recognition remains very high in the UK.

14. **Boston Celtics (NBA):** Historic rivalry with the Lakers and recent success (Tatum/Brown) make them one of the most consistently followed NBA teams.

15. **Miami Heat (NBA):** LeBron's "Heatles" era left a lasting mark. Jimmy Butler's persona and "Heat Culture" resonate. Frequent playoff runs maintain visibility.

**Remaining NFL & The Best of the Rest**

16. **Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL):** Tom Brady's final chapter significantly boosted their UK profile. Mike Evans, Baker Mayfield, and continued competitiveness keep them relevant.

17. **Philadelphia Eagles (NFL):** Passionate fanbase translates internationally. Recent Super Bowl win (2017) and strong performances generate solid UK interest.

18. **Pittsburgh Steelers (NFL):** Iconic brand, historic success (6 Super Bowls), and a massive global "Steeler Nation" ensure a strong UK presence.

19. **New York Yankees (MLB):** The only MLB team with significant UK brand recognition. Historic pinstripes, legends like Ruth, Gehrig, DiMaggio, Jeter, and Judge make them known even to non-baseball fans.

20. **Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL):** While NHL is very niche in the UK, the Leafs likely edge out others due to historical significance, massive Canadian expat community in London, and occasional BBC/TSN coverage mentioning them. (Note: They are Canadian, but play in a US-based league).

**Key Caveats for the UK Market:**

1. **NFL is King:** NFL dominates the top 10-15 spots. The gap between the top NFL teams and even the top NBA teams is significant in terms of mainstream UK sports interest.

2. **London Games are Crucial:** Teams that play frequently in London (Jaguars, Dolphins, Bills, Buccaneers, Falcons, Rams, 49ers, Giants, Jets, Raiders, Saints, Bears, Vikings, Broncos, Panthers, Chiefs, Ravens, Packers, Patriots) gain a *massive* advantage in UK popularity and visibility.

3. **NBA's Solid Niche:** NBA has a passionate and growing fanbase, especially among younger demographics and basketball players. Lakers and Warriors are clear leaders.

4. **MLB/NHL/MLS are Minor Leagues (in UK popularity):** Recognition is low. Yankees stand alone for MLB. NHL is followed by a very small, dedicated group; the Leafs, Canadiens, Bruins, Rangers, and Blackhawks have the most visibility. MLS is virtually unknown outside specific expat communities or hardcore football/soccer fans interested in US development.

5. **Star Power:** Like elsewhere, star players (Mahomes, Allen, Prescott, McCaffrey, LeBron, Curry, Tatum) drive significant interest in their teams.

6. **Media Coverage Dictates Visibility:** Sky Sports' heavy NFL coverage, BBC highlights, and NBA on Sky Sports/TNT Sports shape which teams UK fans see most.

7. **Fluidity:** Success (Chiefs rise), star movement, and London Game slots significantly impact year-to-year popularity.

This list reflects the **relative popularity within the niche** of American sports fandom in the UK, heavily weighted towards the NFL due to its unique position cultivated over nearly two decades of London Games and consistent broadcast presence.