NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has secured a contract extension lasting four years, which will take him through the 2030 league season, concluding on March 31, 2031.
The league’s Compensation Committee informed all team owners about this agreement on Sunday.
In a memo shared with owners and obtained by The Associated Press, Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots, stated: “We believe we are very fortunate to have Roger at the helm for the next four years.”
Kraft chairs the league’s compensation committee.
“During the negotiation period, the Committee collaborated closely with an independent compensation consultant and external legal counsel to devise a deal that aligns Roger’s pay with the League’s long-term goals and success,” Kraft explained. “In this regard, the agreement is largely performance-based, with over 95% of the total compensation linked to Roger’s and the NFL’s success measured against various criteria and at the discretion of the Compensation Committee.”
Financial details remain undisclosed
The financial specifics of Goodell’s new contract have not been revealed yet. Reports indicate he earned $63.9 million during the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons. The NFL is not obligated to publicly disclose Goodell’s compensation annually, as the league office is no longer classified as a tax-exempt trade association.
This marks the fifth contract extension for the 67-year-old Goodell, who has been the commissioner since taking over from Paul Tagliabue in 2006. He started his NFL career as an administrative intern in 1982 under then-commissioner Pete Rozelle.
Under Goodell’s guidance, the NFL’s popularity and revenue have surged. In 2023, the Washington Commanders were sold for $6.05 billion, while the Seattle Seahawks were acquired for $9.612 billion this offseason, setting a new benchmark.
The league has also broadened its global presence, hosting a record nine international games this season.
Goodell’s contract expiration aligns with the conclusion of the current collective bargaining agreement, which is also set to expire in March 2031.