Taking over after Paul Tagliabue’s retirement, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has been in his position since 2006. He’s had to navigate several controversies, such as Spygate, Bountygate, Deflategate, the 2011 lockout, and much more.
After almost 20 years on the job, some are wondering if Goodell plans to retire soon. After all, he’s already the second-longest tenured commissioner in NFL history, behind Pete Rozelle, who held the title from 1960 to 1989. So, is Goodell retiring soon?
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NFL commissioner Roger Goodell ‘not going anywhere’
While Roger Goodell has taken more than his fair share of criticism while handling polarizing events throughout his tenure as NFL commissioner, there’s no indication that he’s ready to throw in the towel any time soon.
According to ESPN’s Don Van Natta Jr. via Puck’s ‘The Varsity’ podcast, Goodell’s contract expires in 2027, but instead of eyeing retirement, he plans to sign a new contract with the NFL to remain as commissioner.
“What I’ve heard is that he isn’t going anywhere. Maybe that’s not surprising when you consider how much money he’s making and how good everything is going. . . . He’s enjoying the job. The business is almost on autopilot. I would be surprised if Roger retires after the conclusion of his current contract.”
Van Natta Jr.’ on Goodell
Instead of retirement, Goodell, who’s 65, will continue driving further innovation into the NFL, both stateside and around the globe. This can be seen with the latest example of the NFL agreeing to play their first game in Dublin, Ireland, during the 2025 season.
With several more years left to go, Goodell has plenty of time to plot his next move.
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