Roger Goodell

Roger Goodell took over as the NFL’s commissioner in 2006, holding the league’s most powerful role through its most prosperous era.

Under Goodell’s stewardship, the average NFL team’s value has increased from $898 million to more than $5 billion, and broadcast rights payments continue to escalate dramatically with each deal cycle. In 2024, Goodell worked with owners to approve private equity minority ownership, which will give majority stakeholders an avenue toward raising liquid funds quickly.

Additionally, during his tenure, the NFL has relocated two teams to Los Angeles and one to Las Vegas—markets Goodell believes will help the league’s long-term health—and increased its presence overseas with more international regular-season contests. In 2024, the NFL visited Brazil for a regular-season matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers.

Goodell’s tenure has also included existential threats, most notably a nationwide reckoning over the effects of concussions in football. The commissioner has grappled with the best way to respond to political expression, as social justice protests from players have prompted consternation from some of the team owners who pay his salary.

Goodell’s current contract as NFL commissioner runs until 2027.