NEWSLETTER
During the NFL spring meeting on Tuesday, Jim Irsay, owner of the Indianapolis Colts, announced that the league’s owners plan to renew Roger Goodell’s contract until 2027.
“It’s not extended today, that’s for sure,” Goodell said when asked about Irsay’s comments. Goodell added, “I love my job,” and said he had “no doubt” that both sides would complete the deal.
“It’s just dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s, but it’s done,” Irsay said. “We still have to rubber stamp it, so to speak, but it’s virtually done. He’s done so much for the league with stability. It’s a tough job, but he’s been a hard worker and worked very hard for the NFL and its success.”
In March, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the league and Roger Goodell would likely finalize a multiyear extension. Goodell has been the league commissioner since 2006, and his current contract runs until 2024. He mentioned that there have been discussions among league officials and owners about the possibility of dividing the commissioner’s duties into two roles — one focused on the business aspects and the other handling on-field matters.
“It’s a healthy discussion to have. The job changes over the years,” Goodell said. “It’s changed ever since I’ve been the commissioner. I know we will have the discussions at the appropriate time.”
In addition to its current benefits, the new contract allows the league to train a possible successor for Goodell if he steps down in 2027.
“No question, he’s going to be involved and have options to stay on as a consultant and help us develop his list, what he thinks are the best people,” Irsay added. “He’ll be with us through it. The contract will speak to that. We’ll look for his contribution in every way possible and how he can help us find the next commissioner or CEO and commissioner. However, we feel the league needs to be set up going forward.”
