Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, Birmingham Stallions Coach Skip Holtz and Stallions quarterback J’Mar Smith sounded off Wednesday on the rumor that the Stallions might leave Birmingham.

“We’ve heard the rumors from unofficial sources and have been assured by the league that no final decisions have been made about numerous teams for next season, including the Stallions,” Woodfin said on social media. “We were surprised by these rumors, since the Stallions have already begun collecting deposits for next year’s season tickets. The Stallions have built a strong, passionate fan base and have seen tremendous success on and off the field. Birmingham was FOX’s number 1 UFL viewership market in the country. There’s no question the team has become a source of pride for our city. We’re sharing new strategies with the league to strengthen local attendance, boost sponsorships and maximize the team’s long-term success here. There is opportunity for growth and we’re committed to working together to make that happen. Giddy Up!”

Holtz and Smith addressed media gathered at Legion Field at a youth football camp they were leading.

“The first I’ve heard of any of this was last night on my drive into Birmingham,” Holtz said. “I think right now it’s speculation from somebody on the outside. I think right now the league, as they do every year, is in a review mode: What happened last year, what was good, what was bad, what can we do better? What are the options available to us?”

On Tuesday night,UFL News HubandPro Football Newsroom reportedtheUnited Football Leaguewas planning to relocate four of its eight teams, including the Stallions. The other teams slated for relocation, the reports said, were the Houston Roughnecks, Memphis Showboats and Michigan Panthers. The four teams form the United Football League’s USFL Conference.

Smith, who lives in Birmingham, said he hears constantly from fans about what the Stallions mean for the city.

“They love seeing a team play for their city,” he said.

“I want to say thank you to Birmingham for everything, all the support, all the love, everything they’ve given us,” Smith said. “I’m just hoping everyone has the chance to play football. That’s my main thing.”