Remembering Paul Tagliabue (1940–2025)
In the world of professional football, few figures left as enduring a mark as Paul Tagliabue. The former commissioner of the NFL served from 1989 to 2006 and died on November 9, 2025, at the age of 84, at his home in Chevy Chase, Maryland, from heart failure compounded by Parkinson’s disease.
A Leader in a Transformative Era
Tagliabue succeeded the legendary Pete Rozelle and presided over a period of remarkable growth for the NFL. Under his watch, the league expanded from 28 to 32 teams — adding the Carolina Panthers and Jacksonville Jaguars in 1995, the reborn Cleveland Browns in 1999, and the Houston Texans in 2002.
He secured television and media rights deals that turned the NFL into one of the most profitable and ubiquitous sports leagues globally. The development of modern stadiums, the launch of the NFL Network, and the increasingly global footprint of the league are part of his legacy.
Steadying through Turbulent Times
One of Tagliabue’s trademarks was his ability to calm and direct the league through crisis. After the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, he led the NFL’s decision to postpone games — a move that signalled the league’s sensitivity to national mood and public sentiment.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, he fought to keep the New Orleans Saints in the city, resisting efforts to relocate the franchise and ensuring football’s return to New Orleans — a moment many view as one of integrity and leadership.
A Legacy with Balance—And Complexity
Tagliabue’s tenure is remembered for labor peace: the league went through 17 seasons without a work stoppage — a rarity in major-league sports.
At the same time, his leadership has not been without controversy. Critics note that during his era the NFL’s handling of the concussion crisis was less aggressive than needed.
In 2020, Tagliabue was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a contributor, acknowledging his broad impact on the sport.
More Than Football
Beyond the gridiron, Tagliabue was deeply committed to education and civic engagement. A former captain of the basketball team at Georgetown University, he later served as chair of its board of directors and supported scholarship programs and interfaith initiatives.
End of an Era
Paul Tagliabue is survived by his wife, Chandler, and his children Drew (Andrew) and Emily. The NFL community quickly shared its grief and gratitude: current NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell called Tagliabue “the ultimate steward of the game — tall in stature, humble in presence and decisive in his loyalty to the NFL.”
As we at the Playmakers Press reflect on his contributions, it’s clear Paul Tagliabue did more than lead a league — he helped shape a cultural institution. The NFL of today, with its global reach, media dominance and stadium spectacle, bears the imprint of his vision.
In the end, his message remains relevant: “It’s not about Paul Tagliabue; it’s about the whole team of people.”
Let us remember him not only for what he built, but for how he built it — with conviction, intellect and a deep understanding of sport’s ability to engage, unite and inspire.
