The commissioner is the NFL’s chief executive. Elected by the team owners, the commissioner runs the league office, represents the league publicly and holds significant disciplinary powers. Roger Goodell has held the role since 2006.
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Who the commissioner works for
The 32 team owners hire the commissioner and approve major decisions such as rule changes, new stadium projects and franchise relocations, typically by a supermajority vote. The commissioner manages the league on their behalf and builds consensus among owners with different interests.
Business and media deals
The NFL earns much of its revenue from national television and streaming contracts, which are shared among the teams. Negotiating these deals is one of the commissioner’s most important tasks. Pete Rozelle, commissioner from 1960 to 1989, is credited with pushing for shared national TV revenue and with overseeing the merger with the AFL and the creation of the Super Bowl, which shaped the modern league.
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Competitive balance
Revenue sharing, the salary cap (introduced in 1994) and the draft aim to keep teams competitive regardless of market size. The commissioner’s office administers these systems and enforces the rules around them.
Discipline
Under the league’s personal conduct policy and the collective bargaining agreement, the commissioner can fine and suspend players, coaches and team officials for misconduct on and off the field. This power has been controversial, and the current collective bargaining agreement gives an independent disciplinary officer a larger role in initial decisions, with appeals still able to reach the commissioner.
Labor relations
The commissioner negotiates with the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) over collective bargaining agreements that set salary cap rules, health and safety measures and benefits. Labor disputes have led to strikes and lockouts in the past. Drug testing is one of the topics negotiated with the union; see the ethics of performance-enhancing drugs.
Public image
The commissioner is the face of the league in debates over player safety, social issues and integrity. Decisions on topics like concussions affect the sport’s future, discussed in challenges facing American football. The draft system, a pillar of competitive balance, is explained in how the NFL draft works.
