If you’ve ever wondered how to become a football analyst and turn your passion for the NFL into a career, you’re in the right place. For anyone who lives and breathes football, understanding the game deeply is only the beginning; transforming that knowledge into a professional path is where the real challenge begins.
The world of football analysis is growing fast, offering exciting career opportunities across the sports industry. From working with professional football clubs and college programs to contributing to media outlets and sports networks, there are many ways to get involved.
This article will show you the steps, education, and experience you’ll need to build your future in football analysis and land a full-time role doing what you love most, helping improve team performance, one game at a time.
What Is A Football Analyst?
A football analyst is a professional who studies the game in detail to uncover insights about players, teams, and strategies. In American football, analysts may work for media outlets, coaching staffs, or scouting departments of professional football clubs.
Some analysts focus on broadcasting—breaking down plays on TV or radio—while others work behind the scenes, analyzing performance for teams. Their main goal is to help audiences or organizations understand how a team performed and what can be done to improve future results.
In the NFL, analysts often serve as the bridge between raw numbers and real-world football. They help coaches and executives make data-driven decisions on player development, play-calling, and game planning.
What Does a Football Analyst Do?
Football analysts play a key role in how the game is studied, understood, and improved. Some work behind the scenes with coaches and scouts, while others break down games for fans watching at home. In most cases, these roles fall into two main paths: performance analysts and media analysts.
Performance Analysts
Performance analysts work directly with coaches and staff for an NFL football club or college team. Their focus is on improving team performance through film study, data tracking, and player evaluation.
Responsibilities include:
- Breaking down game film: Reviewing each play to identify strengths, weaknesses, and patterns that can help coaches adjust strategies.
- Using data analysis tools: Tracking player speed, efficiency, and execution to measure performance and spot trends over time.
- Preparing scouting reports: Gathering information about opponents to help coaches build game plans and anticipate key plays.
- Assisting with player development: Providing insights that guide training sessions, positional improvements, and recovery plans.
- Supporting coaching decisions: Delivering reports and visuals that help staff make informed adjustments before and during games.
Media Analysts
Media analysts, on the other hand, work for outlets such as ESPN, the NFL Network, or major sports websites. They turn complex football concepts into stories that entertain and educate fans.
Responsibilities include:
- Reviewing film and stats: Studying games to explain how a team performed and highlight key moments or standout players.
- Writing articles and analysis pieces: Creating engaging content about teams, players, and game strategy.
- Appearing on broadcasts or podcasts: Sharing insights live, often during or after games, in a way that connects with audiences.
- Following sports industry trends: Staying current on changes in rules, technology, and tactics that shape modern football.
Both types of analysts depend on performance analysis and data analysis to interpret the game and make it more meaningful for coaches, players, and fans alike. on the specific type of position you decide to pursue.
How Much Do Football Analysts Make?
Football analyst salaries depend on experience, level of play, and job type. According to Glassdoor, the average football analyst earns around $53,000 per year, but pay can vary widely:
- Entry-level football analysts: $35,000–$54,000
- Experienced performance analysts: $60,000–$85,000
- Media or broadcast analysts: $75,000–$120,000+
High-profile names, especially former players who move into broadcasting, can earn far more. Some NFL analysts at major media outlets have multimillion-dollar contracts. Most football analyst careers, however, start small with college programs, local networks, or team analytics departments before advancing to professional football clubs.
Do You Need a Degree to Be a Football Analyst?
While talent and football knowledge are key, having a bachelor’s degree can make a big difference in this competitive field. Most professionals hold a degree in one of the following areas:
- Sports Management
- Communications or Journalism
- Data Analytics or Statistics
- Broadcasting
- Sports Science
A bachelor’s degree gives you the skills to research, analyze, and explain complex football concepts. Many universities also offer programs in performance analysis or sports analytics, perfect for anyone looking to combine football knowledge with modern technology.
If your goal is to work for an NFL team, courses in data analysis, sports performance, and video breakdown will help you stand out. Real experience, however, is just as necessary as your education.
How to Become a Football Analyst
Here’s your playbook for how to become a football analyst in the world of American football:
1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Start by getting a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as journalism, broadcasting, or data analytics. A sports analytics degree can open doors in media outlets and with professional football clubs. You’ll learn essential skills like storytelling, statistics, and performance analysis.
2. Gain Experience in the Real World
Education is essential, but nothing replaces experience. Volunteer with your local high school or college football club. Record and analyze plays, track stats, or help coaches review game film.
If you’re interested in the media side, start a podcast or YouTube channel analyzing games and players. These hands-on projects show employers you know how to apply your knowledge in the real world.
3. Learn Data and Video Tools
Modern football analysis relies heavily on technology. Learn tools like Hudl, PFF Ultimate, and Microsoft Excel for data analysis and film review. NFL and Premier League (soccer) teams alike use these systems to evaluate player development and team performance.
4. Build a Portfolio and Resume
Create a portfolio that showcases your best analytical work—game breakdowns, written reports, or recorded segments. If you’ve worked with a team, show how your analysis helped improve team performance or influenced game strategy. Employers want to see your football IQ and communication skills in action.
5. Apply for Analyst Jobs
Once you’ve gained experience, start applying for football analyst jobs. You can find openings with college teams, media outlets, and professional football clubs through JobsInSports.com.
Networking is key in the sports industry. Attend conferences, follow NFL beat reporters, and connect with analysts online. Many people get their first full-time job by building relationships with professionals already in the field.
Career Opportunities for Football Analysts
The world of football analyst careers offers many exciting career opportunities, both on and off the field. Here are some common paths you can take:
- Performance Analyst: Works directly with coaches to break down plays and suggest adjustments to improve team results.
- Football Scout: Evaluates college and pro talent, using film and data analysis to help teams make smarter draft decisions.
- Media Football Analyst: Provides commentary and insights on TV, radio, or online media outlets.
- Sports Data Analyst: Focuses on trends, player stats, and big-picture analytics for organizations or tech companies.
Each role contributes to the growing importance of analytics in the sports industry. In fact, many professional football clubs now have entire departments dedicated to performance analysis and player development.
Get in the Game: Start Your Football Analyst Career
Breaking into football analysis takes passion, persistence, and preparation—but it’s one of the most rewarding football jobs for anyone who loves the game. With a bachelor’s degree, real-world experience, and strong analytical skills, you can build a full-time football career that’s as exciting as being on the field.
If you’re ready to turn your passion for football into a career, now’s the time to make your move. Join JobsInSports.com to explore hundreds of analyst jobs, connect with industry insiders through The Network, and discover real football analyst career opportunities waiting for you.
Don’t just watch the game. Be part of it. Start your football analyst journey today.
