
The 1943 Steagles: A Wartime Merger That Shaped NFL History
During World War II the NFL faced roster shortages that led the Philadelphia Eagles and Pittsburgh Steelers to merge, creating the short‑lived but memorable Steagles. The episode, part of a broader series of player and franchise swaps known as the Pennsylvania Polka, set precedents that echoed through later mergers.
Jun 19, 2026