The NFL isn’t just America’s favorite football league. It’s a powerhouse organization offering a variety of NFL sports management jobs for those with a sports management degree. Whether your passion lies in marketing, player development, or stadium operations, a degree in sports management can give you the foundation to pursue roles that keep professional football running smoothly behind the scenes.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top sports management careers you can pursue in the NFL, from marketing and facilities management to scouting and data analysis. If you’ve been dreaming of turning your love of football into a rewarding career, this is your playbook for getting started.
7 NFL Sports Management Jobs You Can Get with a Degree
If you’ve earned a sports management degree and dream of working in professional football, there are plenty of NFL sports management jobs waiting for you. The NFL depends on talented professionals across marketing, operations, scouting, and analytics to keep the league running strong—both on game day and behind the scenes.
Your degree gives you the skills and knowledge teams look for, from understanding fan engagement to managing complex operations. Below are some of the top NFL careers you can pursue with a sports management degree and what each role involves.
1. Sports Marketer
NFL marketers create and manage campaigns that promote teams, players, and events across digital, print, and broadcast media. They’re responsible for keeping fans engaged, increasing ticket sales, and strengthening brand partnerships.
Expectations:
- Develop and execute marketing campaigns for games and events
- Manage sponsorship activations and promotional partnerships
- Oversee fan engagement initiatives and social media efforts
- Analyze campaign performance to boost future results
Ideal For: Creative thinkers who love connecting fans with the game and can combine strategic marketing with a passion for football.
2. Facilities Manager
Facilities managers ensure NFL stadiums and training centers are safe, efficient, and fully operational. They coordinate maintenance, oversee staff, and manage logistics for games, concerts, and community events.
Expectations:
- Oversee daily operations of stadiums and team facilities
- Manage budgets, maintenance schedules, and vendor relationships
- Ensure compliance with safety and accessibility regulations
- Coordinate with event planners and team operations staff
Ideal For: Organized, detail-oriented individuals who excel at managing logistics and large-scale operations.
3. Scout
Scouts identify up-and-coming talent and assess players’ performance, character, and potential for success in the NFL. Their evaluations help shape team rosters and long-term strategy.
Expectations:
- Evaluate athletes through game footage, stats, and live scouting
- Build relationships with coaches and player agents
- Prepare detailed scouting reports and player assessments
- Collaborate with general managers and coaching staff
Ideal For: Football enthusiasts with a keen eye for talent and a deep understanding of the game’s competitive landscape.
4. Data Analyst
Data analysts use statistics and technology to improve team performance, fan engagement, and business decisions. They work across departments—on the field and in the front office—to turn numbers into actionable insights.
Expectations:
- Collect and analyze performance, marketing, and financial data
- Use analytics software to identify trends and efficiencies
- Present data findings to coaches, managers, or executives
- Support predictive modeling for player and fan behavior
Ideal For: Analytical minds who enjoy finding patterns, solving problems, and helping teams make smarter, data-driven decisions.
5. Event Coordinator
Event coordinators plan and execute everything from game-day experiences to league-wide events like the NFL Draft or Super Bowl festivities. They ensure every detail runs smoothly, from logistics to fan engagement.
Expectations:
- Plan, organize, and manage NFL and team-sponsored events
- Coordinate with vendors, sponsors, and media partners
- Manage budgets, timelines, and on-site logistics
- Ensure a seamless fan and guest experience
Ideal For: Energetic multitaskers who thrive in fast-paced environments and love creating unforgettable experiences.
6. Public Relations Specialist
PR specialists shape the NFL’s public image by managing media relations, preparing press releases, and handling communications during both good and challenging times.
Expectations:
- Draft and distribute press materials and official statements
- Coordinate interviews and media appearances
- Manage communications during crises or major announcements
- Strengthen relationships with journalists and media outlets
Ideal For: Strong communicators who excel under pressure and can craft messages that represent the NFL’s values and reputation.
7. Operations Manager
Operations managers handle the day-to-day logistics that keep NFL teams and departments running smoothly. They often work with multiple divisions to ensure efficiency across travel, staffing, and scheduling.
Expectations:
- Manage logistics for team operations, travel, and events
- Oversee administrative functions and departmental budgets
- Streamline internal processes for efficiency and coordination
- Support executives and team staff in daily operations
Ideal For: Problem-solvers who are highly organized and can balance multiple priorities while keeping operations on track.
How to Get Started in NFL Sports Management
Landing one of the competitive NFL sports management jobs requires more than a passion for football. It takes a combination of education, hands-on experience, and networking. While your sports management degree provides a solid foundation, gaining practical experience is key to standing out to hiring managers.
Why Internships are Important
One of the best ways to kickstart your career is through a sports management or NFL internship. Internships offer real-world experience, allowing you to apply classroom knowledge to areas like marketing, operations, event coordination, or analytics.
Benefits of completing a sports management internship
- Gain hands-on experience in NFL operations, marketing, or analytics
- Apply your sports management degree knowledge in real-world settings
- Build a professional network with industry contacts
- Strengthen your resume and increase your chances of landing entry-level NFL sports management jobs
- Learn the day-to-day responsibilities of NFL roles before committing to a full-time position
Even if an internship isn’t required for every role, it’s highly recommended for anyone serious about pursuing NFL sports management jobs. The experience and connections you gain can open doors to opportunities that might not be advertised publicly.
Tips to Build Experience and Network
- Start early: Seek internships during college or immediately after graduation
- Attend industry events and conferences to meet professionals in the field
- Connect with alumni or mentors who work in sports management
- Explore entry-level roles in sports agencies, collegiate athletics, or local teams to gain relevant experience
Additionally, if you’re interested in working directly with teams, consider exploring NFL team jobs. These roles often offer highly focused expertise and unique exposure to team operations, accelerating your career growth.
By combining your sports management degree with practical experience and networking, you position yourself to enter the world of NFL sports management successfully.
Take the Next Step in Your NFL Career
Breaking into NFL sports management jobs requires more than a degree. It demands real-world experience, meaningful connections, and proactive effort. By combining internships, networking, and hands-on opportunities, you can position yourself to stand out in this competitive field and turn your passion for football into a rewarding career.
Get started today:
- Explore NFL job openings and internships
- Connect with sports industry professionals
- Access career resources tailored to sports management graduates
Don’t wait to make your move. Sign up for JobsInSports.com and The Network o discover NFL and NFL team jobs, build your professional network, and take your first step toward a career in sports management. Your path from fan to football professional starts now.
