Who Owns NFL: Ownership Breakdown

The question of who owns NFL is often asked by fans around the world. The National Football League is not owned by a single person or company. Instead, it is made up of 32 individually owned franchises that collectively govern the league. Understanding its ownership structure reveals how unique and powerful the NFL has become in the sports industry.

National Football League Profile

The National Football League (NFL) is the premier professional American football organization. Founded in 1920, the league has grown into a global powerhouse known for its elite competition and cultural impact. Here’s a detailed overview using the latest 2025 data.

The NFL was founded on September 17, 1920, in Canton, Ohio, as the American Professional Football Association (APFA). In 1922, it adopted the name National Football League. Today, the league consists of 32 teams divided between the American Football Conference (AFC) and the National Football Conference (NFC). It stands as one of the wealthiest and most popular professional sports leagues in the United States—and globally.

Headquartered at 345 Park Avenue in New York City, the NFL oversees both the regular season and postseason, culminating annually in the Super Bowl.

NFL Overview

The NFL operates as a private sports league, structured as 32 individual franchise teams that collaborate on league-wide matters like rules, media rights, and governance. It does not issue public stock. The league generates immense revenue through media rights, sponsorships, licensing, merchandising, and international expansion.

As of 2025, the NFL’s annual revenue has surged to approximately $21 billion, aligning closely with Commissioner Roger Goodell’s target of $25 billion by 2027.

Media rights deals alone now total nearly $110 billion over 11 years, more than doubling previous agreements.

In addition, each NFL team generated around $432.6 million in revenue in 2024, an increase of 7.5% year-over-year.

Streaming platforms like Netflix and YouTube have expanded the league’s broadcast reach. Netflix is streaming Christmas Day games, while YouTube will air exclusive content under new multiyear deals.

A major media development also saw ESPN agree to acquire NFL Network, NFL Fantasy, and RedZone rights in exchange for a 10% equity stake in ESPN—a deal still pending regulatory approval.

National Football League Founders

The NFL traces its roots back to September 17, 1920, when representatives of 11 professional football teams gathered at a car dealership owned by Ralph Hay in Canton, Ohio. This meeting created the American Professional Football Association (APFA), which later became the NFL.

Key figures in the founding include:

• Ralph Hay – Owner of the Canton Bulldogs and host of the founding meeting. His dealership provided the first headquarters for the league.
• Jim Thorpe – Legendary athlete and the league’s first president. His fame gave credibility to the new association.
• George Halas – Founder of the Decatur Staleys (later the Chicago Bears), Halas became one of the most influential figures in NFL history.
• Frank Nied – Representative from the Akron Pros, who became the first league champions.
• Other early owners – Chris O’Brien (Chicago Cardinals), Curly Lambeau (Green Bay Packers), and Joe Carr, who later became NFL president in 1921- played crucial roles in stabilizing and expanding the league.

These men collectively shaped the NFL’s foundation. They established rules, legitimized professional football, and turned a regional association into a national institution.

Major Milestones

• 1920 – The American Professional Football Association (APFA) is founded in Canton, Ohio.
• 1922 – The APFA is renamed the National Football League (NFL).
• 1932 – The first playoff game is held indoors in Chicago due to bad weather, inspiring the creation of a permanent postseason structure.
• 1933 – The NFL introduces divisional play and a championship game to decide the league winner.
• 1936 – The NFL Draft is introduced, becoming the first sports league to adopt this system for distributing talent.
• 1943 – World War II causes teams to merge temporarily, including the “Steagles” (Steelers and Eagles).
• 1958 – The “Greatest Game Ever Played” between the Baltimore Colts and New York Giants brings national attention and boosts football’s popularity.
• 1960 – The rival American Football League (AFL) is founded, setting up competition with the NFL.
• 1967 – The first Super Bowl is played between the NFL and AFL champions.
• 1970 – The NFL and AFL officially merge, creating a 26-team league and establishing the AFC and NFC conferences.
• 1978 – The league expands the regular season to 16 games and introduces new passing rules, leading to more offense.
• 1982 – A players’ strike shortens the season, highlighting labor disputes that would shape modern contracts.
• 1989 – Paul Tagliabue becomes Commissioner, ushering in an era of major media growth.
• 1994 – The NFL adopts the salary cap to create competitive balance.
• 2002 – The Houston Texans join as the 32nd franchise, completing the current structure of the league.
• 2007 – The NFL launches the International Series, beginning with a regular-season game in London.
• 2016 – The Rams relocate back to Los Angeles, followed by the Chargers (2017) and Raiders to Las Vegas (2020), reshaping the league’s geography.
• 2022 – The league introduces the International Home Marketing Areas initiative, giving teams right to build fan bases abroad.
• 2023–2025 – Expansion of games in Germany, Brazil, Spain, and Ireland solidifies the NFL as a global brand. Australia is announced as a future host for 2026.
• 2025 – The NFL strengthens media partnerships with streaming platforms, marking a new era of digital-first sports broadcasting.

Who Owns NFL?

The NFL is a private association. No single person owns the NFL as a whole. Instead, each of the 32 teams is owned by an individual, a family, or a corporate group. Together, these owners form the league’s ownership body. They vote on rules, policies, and leadership positions.

The Green Bay Packers are unique. They are the only publicly owned, non-profit franchise. More than 500,000 shareholders collectively own the team through stock certificates. However, outside of the Packers, every other NFL franchise is privately held.

Below are the key ownership groups and the member teams that collectively own the NFL:

Jerry Jones – Dallas Cowboys

Jerry Jones purchased the Cowboys in 1989 for $140 million. Today, the franchise is the most valuable sports team in the world, worth over $9 billion. Jones has immense influence over NFL decision-making thanks to his success in media negotiations, stadium development, and merchandising strategies. His control of the Cowboys gives him significant weight among fellow owners, making him one of the league’s most powerful figures.

The Hunt Family – Kansas City Chiefs

The Hunt family has been part of professional football since the AFL days. Lamar Hunt, one of the AFL’s founders and a key figure in the AFL-NFL merger, left a lasting legacy. Today, his son Clark Hunt serves as the Chiefs’ chairman and CEO. The Hunts are respected for their stability and tradition, with Clark serving on multiple NFL committees that guide finance and international growth.

The Rooney Family – Pittsburgh Steelers

The Rooney family has owned the Steelers since 1933, when Art Rooney Sr. purchased the team for $2,500. The family remains heavily involved in the NFL, with Art Rooney II currently serving as team president. The Rooneys are known for shaping NFL labor relations and governance, holding long-standing respect among peers. Their control emphasizes stability and influence in key policy decisions.

The Kraft Family – New England Patriots

Robert Kraft bought the Patriots in 1994 for $172 million. Under his leadership, the team became one of the most successful franchises in NFL history, winning six Super Bowls. Kraft is one of the most active voices in league governance, often involved in labor negotiations and media strategy. His son Jonathan Kraft is also increasingly involved, ensuring continuity of family control.

The Glazer Family – Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Glazers purchased the Buccaneers in 1995 for $192 million. Malcolm Glazer originally led the ownership, and since his passing, his children, including Joel and Bryan Glazer, oversee operations. They also own English soccer giant Manchester United. The Glazers hold full ownership and maintain strong control, balancing their influence between U.S. and global sports.

The Ford Family – Detroit Lions

The Ford family has owned the Lions since 1963, when William Clay Ford Sr. purchased the team. Today, Sheila Ford Hamp serves as the principal owner and chair. The Ford family’s legacy ensures long-term stability, and while the Lions have struggled historically, the family remains committed to the franchise.

Stan Kroenke – Los Angeles Rams

Stan Kroenke, a billionaire businessman with vast sports holdings, owns the Rams outright. He was responsible for relocating the team back to Los Angeles in 2016 and for building SoFi Stadium, one of the most advanced sports venues in the world. Kroenke also owns the Denver Nuggets (NBA), Colorado Avalanche (NHL), and Arsenal (English Premier League). His wealth and vision give him major influence within the NFL.

The York Family – San Francisco 49ers

The York family controls the 49ers, with John York and his son Jed York leading the team. The family took over ownership in the late 1990s from Edward DeBartolo Jr. The Yorks have modernized the franchise with Levi’s Stadium and are active in league technology and sustainability initiatives. Their strong governance keeps the 49ers among the most valuable NFL teams.

The McCaskey Family – Chicago Bears

The McCaskey family inherited the Bears from George Halas, one of the NFL’s original founders. Virginia Halas McCaskey, now in her 100s, is the principal owner, though her children and grandchildren are active in management. The McCaskeys hold a large portion of team shares and maintain voting control. They remain deeply connected to NFL traditions and league governance.

The Mara Family – New York Giants

The Mara family has owned the Giants since 1925, making them one of the league’s oldest continuous ownership families. John Mara currently serves as president and CEO, representing the family’s interests. The Maras share control with the Tisch family, who bought into the franchise in 1991. This dual ownership creates balance but still ensures strong family influence.

The Tisch Family – New York Giants

Alongside the Maras, the Tisch family co-owns the Giants. Steve Tisch, a film producer, represents the family’s stake. The Tisch family provides business and media expertise, while collaborating with the Maras in team and league matters. Their role ensures that the Giants remain both financially strong and influential in NFL boardroom decisions.

The Green Bay Packers Public Ownership

The Packers are unique in sports. They are owned by more than 500,000 shareholders who hold symbolic stock certificates. A seven-member executive committee, led by a president (currently Mark Murphy), runs the team. No individual gains profit, and shares cannot be resold on the open market. This structure makes the Packers the only publicly owned franchise in U.S. professional sports.

Other Key Owners

• Stephen Ross (Miami Dolphins) – Billionaire real estate developer, known for global initiatives and pushing for international NFL growth.
• Shahid Khan (Jacksonville Jaguars) – Pakistani-American businessman, owner of Fulham F.C. in the Premier League and AEW wrestling. Strong advocate for international expansion, especially in London.
• Mark Davis (Las Vegas Raiders) – Son of Al Davis, overseeing the Raiders’ move to Las Vegas and the opening of Allegiant Stadium.
• Amy Adams Strunk (Tennessee Titans) – Represents the Adams family, founding owners of the franchise since its Houston Oilers days.
• Jimmy and Dee Haslam (Cleveland Browns) – Billionaire family also invested in sports like the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks and MLS.
• Gayle Benson (New Orleans Saints) – Took over after the passing of Tom Benson; she also owns the NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans.
• Michael Bidwill (Arizona Cardinals) – His family has owned the Cardinals for generations, making them one of the longest-tenured ownership families in the NFL.

Who is the Commissioner of NFL?

The commissioner of the NFL is the league’s most powerful executive. This role is central to overseeing league operations, managing team relations, enforcing rules, negotiating media and sponsorship deals, and safeguarding the long-term growth of the sport. The commissioner works for all 32 team owners but also acts as the public face of the league.

Current Commissioner: Roger Goodell

As of 2025, Roger Goodell remains the commissioner of the NFL. He has held the position since September 1, 2006, when he succeeded Paul Tagliabue. Goodell’s leadership has been marked by significant media deals, global expansion of the sport, and stronger policies on player conduct.

Despite criticism over issues like player safety and disciplinary decisions, Goodell has maintained strong support among team owners due to his ability to increase league revenues and secure long-term media partnerships.

Contract Extensions and Tenure

Goodell has received multiple contract extensions during his tenure. The most recent extension, signed in October 2023, keeps him as commissioner through March 2027. This makes him one of the longest-serving commissioners in NFL history, continuing nearly two decades of leadership. His extended tenure reflects the confidence owners place in him to maintain the NFL’s status as the most lucrative sports league in the world.

Major Achievements Under Goodell

• Global Expansion: Increased NFL presence internationally, with regular season games in London, Germany, and plans for further expansion into Spain and Brazil.
• Broadcasting Deals: Secured record-breaking television and streaming agreements, including partnerships with Amazon, ESPN, CBS, NBC, and Fox.
• Player Safety Initiatives: Pushed for concussion protocols and helmet technology advancements, although debates over long-term health remain ongoing.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Promoted initiatives for diverse hiring practices within coaching and front-office roles.

Decision-Making and Influence

Goodell answers directly to the NFL owners, who hold ultimate voting power. However, his role gives him wide latitude in league governance, disciplinary actions, and negotiations with the NFL Players Association (NFLPA). His authority in handling disputes, approving franchise moves, and managing league crises highlights the commissioner’s central position in shaping the future of professional football.

Past Commissioners of the NFL

Before Roger Goodell, only a handful of men had served as NFL commissioner since the role was created in 1941. Some key names include:

• Elmer Layden (1941–1946) – First NFL commissioner.
• Bert Bell (1946–1959) – Instrumental in creating the NFL Draft system.
• Pete Rozelle (1960–1989) – Expanded the league nationally and secured massive TV deals.
• Paul Tagliabue (1989–2006) – Oversaw league growth, international expansion, and a long era of labor peace.

NFL Annual Revenue and Net Worth

The National Football League remains the richest and most profitable sports league in the world. As of 2025, the NFL generates an estimated $21 billion in annual revenue and holds a total net worth of over $180 billion when considering franchise valuations, media rights, and commercial partnerships. This financial strength is built on decades of brand growth, global expansion, and strategic media deals that continue to elevate the league’s market dominance.

Below is an overview of the historical revenue and net worth of the NFL from 2015-25:

Revenue Growth Over the Years

The NFL has experienced consistent revenue growth over the past two decades. In 2010, league revenue was around $8.5 billion, and by 2020, it had surpassed $12 billion despite challenges from the pandemic. The introduction of massive broadcasting and streaming deals in the 2020s fueled record-breaking gains. By 2023, revenue reached $19 billion, and in 2025, the figure crossed $21 billion, securing the league’s position as the highest-earning sports organization in the world.

Sources of NFL Revenue

The NFL’s revenue comes from multiple major streams. Broadcasting rights remain the largest contributor, with billion-dollar deals signed with CBS, NBC, Fox, ESPN, and Amazon Prime Video. In addition, sponsorships from global corporations, ticket sales from 32 franchises, and merchandise sales all contribute significantly. International games in London, Germany, and Mexico have also increased global revenue streams, expanding the NFL brand beyond the United States.

League Net Worth and Franchise Valuations

The total net worth of the NFL as a collective entity is estimated at more than $180 billion in 2025. This valuation comes largely from the combined worth of its 32 teams, which continue to rise each year.

The Dallas Cowboys remain the most valuable franchise, worth nearly $13 billion alone, while other top franchises like the New England Patriots, San Francisco 49ers, and Los Angeles Rams have valuations exceeding $7 billion.

Even the least valuable NFL teams are now valued at over $4 billion, showcasing the league’s unmatched financial stability compared to other sports leagues worldwide.

Top Franchise Net Worth

The Dallas Cowboys once again top the valuation charts in 2025, with a franchise worth around $13 billion. This places them well ahead of the rest and reaffirms their status as the most valuable sports franchise globally.

Other franchises crossing the $10 billion mark include the Los Angeles Rams and the New York Giants. The New England Patriots, San Francisco 49ers, and Super Bowl–champion Philadelphia Eagles all remain among the elite in franchise valuation, with net worths ranging from $8 billion to $9 billion.

At the lower end—but still within the stratosphere of value—all 32 teams surpass the $5 billion threshold, with the lowest valued franchises still commanding upwards of $5.25 billion.

Financial Outlook for the Future

Looking forward, the NFL’s revenue and net worth are expected to grow further as new international markets open and digital streaming continues to expand. Planned games in Spain and Brazil, coupled with future technology-driven fan experiences, will help the league push toward its long-term target of $25 billion in annual revenue. This trajectory underscores the league’s unique ability to monetize both traditional broadcasting and new digital platforms while retaining massive fan loyalty.

Brands Owned by the NFL

The National Football League is more than just a sports league. Beyond managing its 32 franchises, the NFL owns, operates, and controls several companies, brands, and business entities. These ventures strengthen its media presence, expand its entertainment reach, and create new revenue streams outside traditional football games.

As of 2025, here are the major entities owned and operated directly by the NFL:

NFL Network

NFL Network is the league’s flagship cable and satellite television channel. Launched in 2003, it broadcasts live games, analysis shows, documentaries, and behind-the-scenes programming. It also produces exclusive content like “NFL Total Access” and “Good Morning Football.” The network has become one of the NFL’s most valuable media properties, serving as both a revenue generator and a platform to maintain control over its own content distribution.

NFL Media

NFL Media is the broader media division that includes NFL Network, NFL.com, NFL Mobile, and NFL RedZone. This entity handles content production, live broadcasting, and online distribution. It ensures the NFL has direct control over fan engagement, especially as audiences shift to digital platforms. NFL Media also negotiates content distribution deals with major streaming services.

NFL RedZone

NFL RedZone is a subscription-based television channel that provides live coverage of Sunday games. It shows every touchdown, key highlight, and scoring play across all teams in real-time. Operated under NFL Media, RedZone has become a fan-favorite product and a key part of the NFL’s modern media empire.

NFL Films

NFL Films is the storytelling and documentary division of the NFL, founded in the 1960s. It produces high-quality cinematic content that chronicles the history, players, and cultural impact of the league. Iconic series like “A Football Life” and “America’s Game” are produced here. NFL Films has won numerous Emmy Awards and remains central to the NFL’s brand image.

NFL Enterprises LLC

NFL Enterprises manages the league’s intellectual property, branding, and commercial licensing. This includes video games, merchandise, collectibles, and partnerships with global companies. Through this entity, the NFL oversees deals like the Madden NFL video game franchise, which continues to be a top-seller and a cultural phenomenon in sports gaming.

NFL Properties

NFL Properties is the merchandising and licensing arm of the league. It handles the branding and sale of official team apparel, accessories, and other licensed products. This entity is key to the NFL’s ability to generate billions from merchandise sales worldwide, ensuring every fan purchase supports the league and its franchises.

NFL International

NFL International is responsible for expanding the game beyond U.S. borders. It oversees the league’s global strategy, including regular season games in London, Germany, and Mexico, and planned expansions into Spain and Brazil. This entity also manages international media rights and fan engagement programs designed to grow the league’s worldwide fan base.

NFL Foundation

The NFL Foundation is the league’s nonprofit arm. It funds community outreach, youth football programs, player health and safety initiatives, and charitable activities. While not a for-profit venture, it is an essential part of the NFL’s brand, reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility and player welfare.

NFL Ventures L.P.

NFL Ventures manages joint partnerships, sponsorships, and commercial projects that benefit the league collectively. It oversees relationships with companies like Nike, Pepsi, and Verizon, ensuring that sponsorship revenue is maximized and distributed across all 32 teams. This entity is vital for maintaining the NFL’s financial strength and long-term sustainability.

On Location Experiences

The NFL owns a significant stake in On Location Experiences, a premium hospitality and events company. It provides fans with VIP access to Super Bowl tickets, exclusive packages, and luxury event experiences. By owning part of this company, the NFL ensures it directly profits from its most prestigious events.

345 Park Avenue Headquarters Operations

The NFL’s headquarters at 345 Park Avenue in New York City operates as the central hub for its administrative and operational divisions. This includes departments handling legal, broadcasting, scheduling, labor relations, and strategic growth. While not a “brand” in the traditional sense, the operations here control and manage the entities that define the league’s global business empire.

Final Words

The NFL is more than just a sports league; it is a carefully structured business built on teamwork between its 32 team owners and its central leadership. Decisions are shaped collectively, with the commissioner guiding the league’s long-term vision. When people ask who owns NFL, the answer is that ownership lies within its member franchises, making it a unique cooperative model in professional sports. This balance of individual team control and unified league governance has fueled the NFL’s growth into one of the most powerful organizations in global sports.

FAQs

Who owns NFL Network?

NFL Network is owned and operated directly by the National Football League through its division NFL Media. It is not owned by an outside company but is controlled collectively by the 32 NFL team owners.

What is the list of wealthiest NFL owners?

Some of the wealthiest NFL owners in 2025 include Rob Walton (Denver Broncos), David Tepper (Carolina Panthers), Stan Kroenke (Los Angeles Rams), Jerry Jones (Dallas Cowboys), and Shahid Khan (Jacksonville Jaguars). Their fortunes come from industries such as retail, hedge funds, real estate, and global investments.

What’s the list of all NFL owners?

Each of the 32 NFL franchises is privately owned by an individual, family, or corporate group. The complete list includes well-known owners like Jerry Jones (Cowboys), Robert Kraft (Patriots), the Ford family (Lions), the Rooney family (Steelers), and others across all franchises.

Who are the women owners in the NFL?

Several women own or co-own NFL teams. Notable examples include Sheila Ford Hamp (Detroit Lions), Gayle Benson (New Orleans Saints), Dee Haslam (Cleveland Browns, co-owner with Jimmy Haslam), Denise York (San Francisco 49ers, through the DeBartolo family), and Amy Adams Strunk (Tennessee Titans).

Who runs the NFL organization?

The NFL is run by the commissioner, Roger Goodell, as of 2025. He serves as the chief executive of the league, while ultimate authority is shared by the 32 franchise owners who vote on key matters.

What’s the ranking of the NFL owners by wealth?

In 2025, the ranking of NFL owners by wealth is led by Rob Walton (worth over $70 billion), followed by David Tepper (over $20 billion), Stan Kroenke (around $15 billion), Jerry Jones (around $13 billion), and Shahid Khan (over $12 billion).

Who is the richest NFL owner?

Rob Walton, owner of the Denver Broncos and heir to the Walmart fortune, is the richest NFL owner in 2025 with an estimated net worth of more than $70 billion.

Does Jay Z own part of the NFL?

No, Jay Z does not own any part of the NFL. However, his company Roc Nation has a partnership with the league, focused on entertainment, social justice initiatives, and the Super Bowl halftime show.

Who owns the rights to the NFL?

The NFL owns its own rights through NFL Enterprises and NFL Properties. Broadcast rights are licensed to networks like CBS, NBC, Fox, ESPN, and Amazon, but no single entity owns the league’s rights.

Did Disney buy the NFL?

No, Disney did not buy the NFL. Disney, through ESPN and ABC, holds broadcasting rights for Monday Night Football and some playoff games, but the league itself remains independently owned by its 32 teams.

Is any NFL player a billionaire?

As of 2025, no NFL player has reached billionaire status solely from playing football. Some former players, like Tom Brady, have accumulated hundreds of millions through contracts, endorsements, and investments, but none are billionaires.

Who owns the most NFL teams?

No individual or group owns multiple NFL teams. League rules prohibit cross-ownership, ensuring that each of the 32 franchises is controlled by a separate ownership group or family.

Is the NFL a non-profit?

The NFL was once registered as a non-profit trade association, but in 2015, it gave up that status. The league now operates as a taxable entity.