Becoming the NFL commissioner involves a selection process by the NFL team owners, who vote to appoint the league's chief executive officer. The position was created in 1941 and the commissioner acts as the chief executive with broad authority over league operations, including rule-making, scheduling, discipline, and league membership decisions
. Key steps and considerations to become NFL commissioner:
- Professional background: Candidates typically have extensive experience in the NFL or related sports/business fields. For example, Roger Goodell worked in the NFL for over two decades before becoming commissioner, starting as an intern and rising through league ranks
- Selection process: When the previous commissioner retires, the NFL owners form search committees to identify and vet candidates. Finalists are presented to all owners for voting. Goodell was selected after multiple ballots and a narrow vote margin, showing the importance of gaining broad support among owners
- Voting: The commissioner must receive a two-thirds majority vote from the NFL owners. The process can involve several rounds of voting until a candidate secures enough votes
- Responsibilities: The commissioner has full authority over league governance, including setting rules, approving trades, scheduling, discipline, and league membership. This role is akin to a company president but focused on the NFL's unique business and sports aspects
In summary, to become NFL commissioner, one must build a strong career in football or sports administration, gain the confidence of NFL owners, and be elected by a supermajority vote. The role demands leadership, negotiation skills, and a deep understanding of the NFL's business and competitive environment
