NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has secured a four-year contract extension that will last until the conclusion of the 2030 league season, concluding on March 31, 2031.
The NFL’s Compensation Committee informed the full ownership about this agreement on Sunday.
In a memo addressed to owners, which was obtained by The Associated Press, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft remarked: “We feel very fortunate to have Roger leading us for the next four years.”
Kraft serves as the chair of the league’s compensation committee.
“During the negotiation phase, the Committee collaborated closely with an independent third-party compensation consultant and outside legal advisors to create a deal that aligns Roger’s pay with the League’s long-term goals and achievements,” Kraft stated. “Consequently, the agreement is primarily performance-based, with over 95% of the total compensation linked to Roger’s and the NFL’s performance measured against various metrics and at the discretion of the Compensation Committee.”
Financial details remain undisclosed
The financial specifics of Goodell’s new contract have not been made available. It has been reported that he earned $63.9 million during the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons. The NFL is no longer obligated to disclose Goodell’s compensation annually since the league office no longer operates as a tax-exempt trade association.
This marks the fifth contract extension for the 67-year-old Goodell, who has been commissioner since taking over from Paul Tagliabue in 2006. He began his career in the NFL as an administrative intern in 1982 under then-commissioner Pete Rozelle.
Under Goodell’s guidance, the NFL has seen a significant surge in both popularity and revenue. The Washington Commanders were sold for $6.05 billion in 2023, and the Seattle Seahawks were sold for $9.612 billion this offseason, setting a new benchmark.
The league has also been expanding its international presence, playing a record nine games outside the U.S. this season.
The end of Goodell’s contract aligns with the expiration of the current collective bargaining agreement, which will also conclude in March 2031.
