Roger Goodell: Leading the NFL Toward a Diverse and Inclusive Future

• Roger Goodell became the NFL Commissioner in 2006 and has advocated for diversity and inclusion within the league.
• Under his leadership, there has been a significant increase in the number of female coaches, referees, and executives in the NFL.
• Key figures in this movement include Virginia Halas McCaskey, Jen Welter, Katie Sowers, Jennifer King, Sarah Thomas, Sandra Douglass Morgan, and Catherine Raîche.
• The NFL has made significant strides in hiring women and people of color in leadership roles, supported by collaborations with organizations that promote minority and female business owners.
• His wife, Jane Skinner Goodell, has highlighted women’s narratives through her “Next Women Up” series.

Building a League for All: Roger Goodell’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion in the NFL

Since taking the helm as Commissioner of the National Football League in 2006, Roger Goodell has been a pivotal figure in professional sports and a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion within the league. Under his leadership, the NFL has seen significant strides toward becoming a more inclusive and diverse organization. The landscape of the NFL has transformed in terms of female representation, with more women stepping into roles as coaches, referees, and executives than ever before. These changes mark not only a shift in numbers but also a revolutionary change in the league’s approach to diversity, echoing Goodell’s vision of an NFL where talent and hard work determine your path, irrespective of background or gender. As we delve deeper into Goodell’s tenure, we observe a league passionately pursuing diversity, not just in words but in actionable, impactful ways. The journey toward inclusivity in the NFL is far from over, but the progress made under Goodell’s watch is both commendable and suggestive of a promising future.

The Rooney Rule has been a cornerstone of the NFL’s diversity efforts since its inception in 2003. With Roger Goodell at the helm, this initiative has renewed focus and expanded to create more opportunities for women in the league. Initially mandating that NFL teams interview at least one minority candidate for coaching jobs, the rule has evolved to include women. It also opens up the roles to general manager jobs and other executive positions across the league. This vital policy adjustment has paved the way for a noticeable increase in the cultural and gender diversity of coaching staff and executives within the league, showcasing Goodell’s commitment to nurturing a culture of equal opportunity.

Who are the Women Changing the Sport as We Know it?

In a historically male-dominated sport, the increasing visibility of women in significant roles is a testament to the NFL’s evolving attitudes towards gender equality under Goodell’s commissionership. 

In 2009, Virginia Halas McCaskey shattered glass ceilings by becoming the first female team owner in NFL history when she assumed control of the Chicago Bears. Her groundbreaking leadership paved the way for other women to ascend to influential roles within NFL franchises, ushering in a new era of gender diversity in ownership.

The emergence of female coaches in the NFL has been another transformative development. Jen Welter blazed a trail in 2015 by becoming the first female coach in the league, selected as a training camp intern by the Arizona Cardinals. Her groundbreaking achievement catalyzed a movement, including more women coaches like Katie Sowers, who made history as the first female coach to reach the Super Bowl as an assistant with the San Francisco 49ers in 2020.

In a groundbreaking move, the Chicago Bears hired Jennifer King as an assistant coach, who will lend her expertise to the running backs. This appointment is not just a job change but a historic milestone as Jennifer King becomes the first Black female coach in NFL history. Her journey to this point has been nothing short of inspiring. After spending three seasons with the Washington Commanders, where she served as a full-time offensive assistant and notably an assistant running backs coach, King has broken through a significant barrier in professional sports. Women are also breaking barriers in officiating and executive positions, highlighting an important shift in the league’s employment practices. 

Among these notable advancements, the appointment of Sarah Thomas as the first full-time female official and later her role as the first woman to officiate at a Super Bowl stands out as a landmark achievement. 

In July 2022, another monumental advancement was made in the NFL’s portfolio of leadership roles, as Sandra Douglass Morgan was appointed President of the Las Vegas Raiders. This historic appointment has cemented her place in sports history and marks her as the first Black woman President of an NFL team. Sandra Douglass Morgan’s rise to this prestigious position is a significant nod to the evolving landscape of sports administration, which is increasingly embracing diverse leadership. These milestones are not merely symbolic but reflective of the NFL’s tangible steps towards an inclusive environment where talent is the only criterion that matters.

Catherine Raîche’s narrative epitomizes this evolution, as she has transcended doubt and suspicion to emerge as the highest-ranking female executive in NFL history. Her journey serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring women within the league and beyond, highlighting the progress and opportunities now available to women in football. Individuals like Sam Rapoport, the league’s senior diversity, equity, and inclusion director, have propelled equality initiatives forward. In Sam’s own words, “We’ve only scratched the surface so far, but when you zoom out and look at the progress the NFL has seen in the last seven years compared to its first 100 years of existence, it is remarkable.” This sentiment emphasizes the profound impact of concerted efforts to foster diversity and inclusivity within the NFL. This commitment can inspire other women who look up to women like Sam Rapoport, Catherine Raiche, Sarah Thomas, Sandra Douglass, and Jennifer King.

What is Roger Goodell Doing to Change the Role of Women in the NFL?

Roger Goodell has committed to change and brings forth initiatives that are desperately needed in the NFL. The eighth annual NFL Women’s Forum, held on February 27-28, 2024, during the exhilarating NFL Combine in Indianapolis, represents a dynamic and influential component of the league’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Since its inception in 2017, the forum has become a pivotal platform for fostering growth and opportunities for women in professional football. This event has connected 40 remarkable women, 60% of whom are women of color, with some of the foremost leaders in professional football. It facilitated invaluable insight into networking opportunities for careers that span scouting, data and analytics, coaching, and football operations—traditionally dominated by men. This initiative emphasizes the NFL’s active role in dismantling barriers and expanding the professional horizon for women in sports.

Over the past events, 260 women have benefited from participating in the forum, with more than 250 finding opportunities at all football levels—a testament to the forum’s effectiveness and reach. Impressively, 29 clubs have hired past participants, and this past year saw engagement from all 32 NFL clubs, reflecting a league-wide endorsement of the forum’s goals and contributions. The recent season boasts 12 full-time female coaches, the highest in NFL history and a global record for any male professional sports league. In partnership with Women Leaders in College Sports, the NFL also designed an enriching curriculum for this year’s participants, ensuring the forum was not only a meeting place but an authentic learning experience aimed at career development.

By continually hosting and enhancing the NFL Women’s Forum, the league champions women’s professional growth and enriches the sport’s culture, making professional football a more inclusive and diverse field. This initiative is a bright example of the league’s ongoing efforts to foster an environment where diversity and inclusion are not just welcomed but are integral components of the league’s identity and success.

Launched in 2013, the NFL Women’s Community stands as a foundational pillar in the league’s ongoing mission to foster growth, empowerment, and inclusivity for women engaged in the multifaceted realm of football. This initiative serves as a hub of resources and support, catering to diverse individuals, including women working in football, active players, mothers and partners of players, and devoted fans of the game.

At its core, the Women’s Community envisions a vibrant landscape of engagement, offering information, resources, and activities that span football’s spectrum. This vision encapsulates a holistic approach to involving women in football, recognizing and celebrating their varied roles and contributions.

Initiatives tailored and executed by NFL clubs focusing on women are instrumental components of the Women’s Community. These initiatives are designed to provide specialized support and opportunities for women within the football industry and create spaces where their voices and talents can flourish.

Beyond internal efforts, the NFL Women’s Community extends its reach through strategic partnerships with organizations dedicated to empowering and championing women in football. This collaborative approach signifies a shared commitment to advancing gender equality and representation within the sport, all encapsulated under the visionary leadership of Commissioner Roger Goodell.

Positive Trends for Women’s Diversity, Present and Future, in the NFL

The rise in the number of women assuming full-time coaching or football operations roles within the NFL—from 199 in 2023 to 223 in 2024—signals a remarkable 141% increase since 2020. The league office itself saw a surge in female representation, with 41.3% of roles occupied by women in 2022, marking an all-time high that starkly contrasts with the 29.6% figure in 2014. These statistics reflect progress and embody a commitment to reshaping the league’s composition and culture to mirror a more inclusive society. Jonathan Beane’s recent declarations show a momentous shift within the NFL, with “51 percent of the league at the clubs being women and people of color.” This milestone signifies the first achievement of such demographic representation, elevating the league to a majority-minority status, a significant high-water mark.

Following rumors that up to 32 NFL teams are considering hiring female general managers, Commissioner Roger Goodell expressed his optimism at the closure of NFL meetings in May, suggesting that the appointment of a female general manager would be “fantastic.”

Every year, the NFL’s football operations department, led by Troy Vincent, meticulously assembles a comprehensive “ready list” of candidates for head coach, coordinator, and GM positions. This list, curated in collaboration with league executives, advisors, and industry experts, is a crucial resource for teams, facilitating exposure for diverse candidates. The recent iteration of this list featured four women as GM candidates, further supporting the league’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity across leadership roles.

Goodell emphasizes the importance of cultivating psychologically safe environments within NFL teams, emphasizing that beyond diversifying hiring practices, creating nurturing cultures is essential for decision-makers like GMs to flourish and contribute effectively.

“The talent is there,” Goodell affirmed, referencing the Accelerator Program initiated by the league in 2022. “And the talent is participating in programs like this,” he added, underscoring the league’s commitment to cultivating a pipeline of skilled individuals ready to assume leadership roles. This program entails a suite of workshops and networking opportunities to foster talent and potential within the NFL.

While only 32 general manager positions exist in the NFL, Goodell remains optimistic about the availability and readiness of qualified candidates, echoing the sentiment that the potential for female leadership in the league is abundant. As the NFL continues to champion diversity and growth, the emphasis on providing opportunities and creating supportive environments for leaders of all backgrounds is poised to reshape the league’s landscape, paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic future.

Moreover, recent years have witnessed a paradigm shift towards inclusivity and diversity in marketing and sponsorship within the NFL, with women playing a pivotal role in driving this transformation. Women are increasingly being featured in advertising campaigns, providing a platform to share their narratives and experiences as passionate fans of the sport, further enriching the tapestry of NFL fandom. The collective impact of women within the NFL extends far beyond their roles; it signifies a cultural shift towards a more equitable, inclusive, and diverse league, propelling the sport into a future where talent knows no gender boundaries, and diversity is celebrated as a core tenet of success.

How is Roger Goodell Advancing Diversity and Inclusion in the NFL?

Commissioner Roger Goodell’s strategic appointments of Sam Rapoport, Jonathan Beane, and Anna Isaacson have played a key role in propelling change within the league and reinforcing its dedication to promoting diversity and gender representation in the NFL. In spearheading the league’s social responsibility and equity efforts, Anna Isaacson, the Senior Vice President for Social Responsibility of the NFL, is a pivotal figure championing the Inspire Change initiative, driving the NFL’s commitment to harnessing its platform for meaningful social progress.

Partnering with essential organizations such as the National Minority Supplier Development Council, the National LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce, the Contract with Black America, the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, and the US Black Chamber of Commerce has strengthened the league’s diversity initiatives. The NFL’s collaboration and securing of $78 million in loans from minority banks highlight a firm commitment to supporting diverse business owners and fostering a more inclusive professional landscape within the league.

The NFL continues to spotlight its NFL Coach and Front Office Accelerator Program, the Assistant Coaching Program, and the Women’s Career in Football Initiative, emphasizing their significant impact on the increased participation of people of color and women in leadership roles across the league. These programs signify a dedicated effort by the NFL to cultivate a more diverse and inclusive environment by providing opportunities for underrepresented groups to thrive and excel in the professional sphere of football.

Through the NFL’s proactive initiatives, individuals from diverse backgrounds are provided with avenues to pursue careers in coaching, front-office management, and various leadership positions. This concerted focus on fostering talent and promoting diversity serves not only to enrich the league’s workforce but also to encourage a vibrant culture of inclusion and equity. The league’s commitment to expanding access and breaking down barriers for individuals of all backgrounds showcases a genuine dedication to driving positive change and progress within the NFL.

What are People Saying About Goodell’s Progress?

Adrien Bouchet, the director of TIDES and the report’s primary author, highlighted the NFL’s continued progress in refining hiring practices within the league office and across their teams. The report card reinforced the league’s unwavering commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and showcased positive developments in this year’s assessment. Jeff O’Brien, CEO of the Institute for Sport and Social Justice, commended the NFL’s growth mindset towards DEI, noting that the league’s emphasis on diversity has yielded significant improvements, leading to the highest recorded grades on several crucial benchmarks.

The NFL’s strides towards diversity are reflected in ownership representation. Shad Khan, a Pakistani-American entrepreneur, has shaped the landscape as the principal owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars since 2012. Similarly, Kim Pegula, an Asian American woman, holds a significant ownership interest in the Buffalo Bills, becoming an integral figure in NFL ownership circles from 2014 onwards. Notably, the 2023 season saw a notable increase in female representation among principal owners, with seven women making impactful strides within NFL ownership ranks. These advancements in ownership demonstrate the NFL’s commitment to fostering a more diverse and inclusive environment at all levels of the league, underscoring a significant shift towards representation and equality in professional football.

When it comes to hiring practices, the NFL’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. A notable commendation was awarded in the form of a B+ rating for racial hiring practices, reflecting an 86.2% success rate, up by 1.2 percentage points from the previous assessment. Similarly, a B rating was awarded for gender hiring practices, displaying an 84.0% effectiveness, a 2.6 percentage point increase. This culminated in a solid overall combined grade of B+, underscoring the league’s proactive strides toward fostering diversity and inclusivity in its workforce.

The NFL’s commitment to diversity and representation was vividly apparent in coaching positions, with the overall presence of people of color in assistant coaching roles reaching an all-time high of 43.6% in 2023, a notable uptick from 42.8% in 2022. These statistics reflect the league’s dedication to creating a more inclusive environment and support its continuous efforts to promote diversity and equity, further cementing the NFL’s position as a leader in enhancing opportunities and fostering a diverse and dynamic professional landscape within football.

Where does Goodell Get His Passion for Women’s Empowerment in The NFL?

In a poignant address to young women in football, Roger Goodell has personally recognized women’s vital role within the sport. Goodell openly expressed that his daughters hold these young women in high regard, drawing inspiration from their presence and achievements on the gridiron. By acknowledging their influence and impact, Goodell reinforces the significant role that these young women play as role models in football, shaping the present and future of the sport.

Through his words, Goodell amplifies the significance of representation and leadership by illustrating these female athletes’ positive impact on the broader football community. This gesture of admiration and recognition motivates young women to continue excelling in the sport, and reinforces the NFL’s steadfast commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all aspiring athletes, regardless of gender.

At the Super Bowl 50 Women’s Summit, Roger Goodell, the NFL Commissioner, echoed a sentiment at the core of the league’s values: “We believe in diversity.” Goodell’s words reflect a deep-rooted commitment to inclusivity and equity within the organization, highlighting the belief that a diverse representation of individuals enhances the league’s strength and effectiveness. Acknowledging the transformative power of diversity, Goodell emphasized the pivotal role that diverse voices and perspectives play in shaping a vibrant and forward-thinking NFL. Goodell stresses the importance of having talented individuals from varied backgrounds seated at the table, emphasizing that the organization thrives when fueled by a diverse and inclusive environment. 

The familial commitment to diversity and inclusivity in the NFL extends beyond Roger Goodell’s role as Commissioner. Jane Skinner Goodell, Roger’s wife, plays an active and integral role in amplifying women’s narratives within the NFL. With a dedicated series titled “Next Women Up,” she shines a spotlight on the evolving journey of the NFL’s diversity landscape, showcasing women’s growth, achievements, and unique narratives within the league.

Through her storytelling, Jane Skinner Goodell highlights the vital contributions and experiences of women in football and fosters a deeper understanding of the diverse talents and perspectives that enrich the NFL. Her efforts exemplify a genuine dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices and celebrating the achievements of women within the sport, contributing to a more inclusive and engaging narrative that reflects the dynamic and evolving nature of the NFL’s diversity journey.

Will Goodell Bring the NFL a Bright Future?

Under the visionary leadership of Commissioner Roger Goodell, the National Football League (NFL) has embarked on a transformative journey toward fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within its ranks. Through strategic initiatives, the NFL has increased the representation of women and people of color in various roles and created pathways for leadership opportunities, breaking down barriers and paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse professional ecosystem within the league.

Thanks to Roger Goodell and his team’s concerted efforts, the NFL is witnessing a paradigm shift, offering a glimpse of a future where a multitude of female faces enrich and diversify the football network system. Through dedication, innovation, and forward-thinking leadership, the NFL is poised to create a more inclusive and empowering environment, revolutionizing the landscape of professional football and inspiring generations of young girls to dream big and reach for the stars.

As the NFL continues to break barriers and promote equal opportunities, Goodell’s vision of a diverse and equitable league is steadily becoming a reality, setting a promising precedent for the future of professional football.