The NFL is a highly competitive sport, with a relentless pace of change and no tolerance for mistakes. The league’s leaders are charged with upholding the game’s enduring values while positioning it for long-term success. They are constantly adapting to changing market conditions and delivering results that exceed expectations. Their leadership is a model that corporate executives can use to achieve their own goals.
Whether it’s improving the NFL’s financial position or fostering a safer environment for players, these leaders are committed to advancing the game. Their diverse backgrounds and unique perspectives provide valuable insights into how to successfully navigate the challenges of a fast-changing world.
These nfl leaders are making an impact on the league in their own way, from promoting youth football to creating new platforms that encourage participation in tackle and flag football. Their efforts are enabling the next generation of players to develop the skills necessary to thrive both on and off the gridiron.
Roman Oben, Vice President of Football Development, drives the league’s strategy to promote participation in tackle and flag football among young people nationwide. He also leads the development of new platforms to support collegiate student-athletes in their preparation for the NFL both on and off the field.
The former track and field college student-athlete holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, a master’s degree with a concentration in sports psychology and a doctorate in clinical psychology from Temple University. He has a unique background in bringing a scientific perspective to the complex issues surrounding football and its impact on society.
Tagliabue was commissioner of the NFL for 28 years, overseeing a massive expansion in team ownership and stadium construction that drove a boom in revenue. He also ushered in the modern era of labor peace, working with players and keeping a work stoppage at bay for more than two decades.
Goodell has been the face of the NFL for a decade and is charged with addressing the growing concerns of fans, victims advocates and others who worry about the connection between football and brain disorders like CTE. His approach to player safety has been criticized for inconsistencies, but his efforts have contributed to an unprecedented level of transparency and spending on injury prevention.
He is the steadfast leader of his team’s locker room, and he’s been an important voice for his full player union membership. During the current CBA’s voting period, he used his degree in industrial labor relations to help educate the players and ensure they were best equipped to make their decision. The result was an agreement that safeguards the health and safety of all players.