Game Changers: 25 Names to Watch in the NFL This Year

NFL 2025: 25 Game Changers Shaping the Future of the League

Where Is the NFL Headed?

A quarter into the 21st century, the NFL shows no sign of slowing down. Its popularity continues to grow, expanding across digital platforms and pushing beyond U.S. borders. Yet the game is evolving too — innovative coaches, visionary executives, star players and even business leaders are redefining how football is played and consumed.

Yahoo Sports reporters Charles Robinson and Jori Epstein spoke with dozens of insiders during training camps to identify 25 figures who will have the biggest influence on the league in 2025. These are the game changers reshaping the NFL both on and off the field.

Lamar Jackson — QB, Baltimore Ravens

A two-time MVP who shattered scouting stereotypes, Jackson has forced teams to rethink how they evaluate quarterback talent. His dynamic playmaking continues to shape the modern game.

John Streicher — VP of Football Operations, New England Patriots

Known as “Stretch,” Streicher has become a master of game management. His ability to spot loopholes and influence strategy makes him a rising force in NFL front offices.

Tom Brady — Raiders Minority Owner & Media Icon

Even in retirement, Brady remains one of the NFL’s most powerful figures. Between his ownership stake, media presence and business ventures, his influence spans far beyond the field.

The Manning Dynasty

From Archie to Peyton, Eli, and now Arch Manning, the family has shaped NFL history for decades. With their expanding media empire and potential ownership ambitions, the Mannings’ influence isn’t slowing down.

Brad Holmes — GM, Detroit Lions

Holmes’ streamlined scouting system and eye for talent have revitalized the Lions and earned respect across the league. His methods are changing how teams build rosters.

Bela Bajaria — Chief Content Officer, Netflix

As streaming giants battle for NFL broadcasting rights, Bajaria is positioning Netflix as a future powerhouse, with major implications for how fans watch football.

Howie Roseman — GM, Philadelphia Eagles

Aggressive trades, creative contracts and bold roster moves have kept the Eagles competitive for nearly a decade. Roseman’s playbook has become a model for other front offices.

Brian Flores — Defensive Coordinator, Minnesota Vikings

His unpredictable, aggressive schemes transformed the Vikings’ defense into one of the best in the league. Opponents never know what’s coming next.

Sarah Thomas — NFL Referee

The first full-time female official in league history, Thomas paved the way for more women in officiating. Her presence continues to reshape perceptions in a male-dominated role.

Peter O’Reilly — NFL Executive VP

From the Super Bowl to international expansion, O’Reilly drives some of the league’s most ambitious projects. Many see him as a future commissioner.

Travis Hunter — WR/CB, Jacksonville Jaguars

A rare two-way player, Hunter is redefining what’s possible in modern football, drawing comparisons to Shohei Ohtani’s two-way dominance in baseball.

Mike North — VP of Broadcasting, NFL

North’s algorithms dictate the NFL schedule, from prime-time showdowns to international games. His work quietly shapes the rhythm of every season.

Kevin Demoff — President, Los Angeles Rams

From franchise relocations to organizational overhauls, Demoff has proven to be one of the NFL’s most versatile and trusted executives.

Michael Rubin — CEO, Fanatics

Rubin’s company dominates NFL merchandise, betting, and collectibles. His connections with players, owners, and executives make him one of the league’s most powerful business figures.

Sam Rapoport — Founder, NFL Women’s Forum

Her initiative has opened doors for hundreds of women in football, from coaching to scouting. She continues to push gender equity in the NFL.

Duke Manyweather — Offensive Line Trainer

With over 100 active NFL linemen as clients, Manyweather has revolutionized how offensive linemen prepare for the league.

The Player Voice — NFLPA Report Cards

The NFLPA’s team report cards have given players a platform to hold owners accountable, pushing franchises to improve facilities and working conditions.

Foreign Investment in Teams

As franchise valuations skyrocket, global billionaires are increasingly being eyed as future NFL owners. International money could reshape the league’s financial landscape.

Jayden Daniels — QB, Washington Commanders

The 2024 Rookie of the Year is already being called the face of the league’s next generation. His style and leadership could define the post-Mahomes era.

Greg Penner — Owner, Denver Broncos

Since taking over in 2022, Penner has invested heavily in facilities and coaching. His willingness to spend is reshaping the Broncos’ future.

David Mulugheta — NFL Agent, Athletes First

Representing dozens of Pro Bowlers, Mulugheta resets markets with every deal. He has become one of the most powerful agents in football.

Shailagh Murray & Jonathan Nabavi — FanDuel Executives

As legalized betting surges toward $35 billion in revenue, these two are shaping how gambling integrates with the NFL’s future.

Dr. Neal ElAttrache — Orthopedic Surgeon

Responsible for saving the careers of stars like Aaron Rodgers and Saquon Barkley, ElAttrache is redefining what’s possible in player recovery.

Kevin O’Connell — Head Coach, Minnesota Vikings

Already an AP Coach of the Year, O’Connell has built a reputation as one of the best young offensive minds and QB developers in football.

The Next Power Brokers — Owners and Commissioner Successors

With Jerry Jones, Robert Kraft, and Roger Goodell nearing the end of their eras, their successors could chart the course of the NFL for decades to come.