Initially, the league was led by a president, a position primarily focused on administrative duties and maintaining order among the member teams. As the NFL grew in popularity and complexity, the need for a more powerful and decisive leader became apparent. This led to the creation of the commissioner role, a position that would wield greater authority and shape the league's direction.

The NFL Commissioner is the chief executive officer of the league, responsible for overseeing all aspects of its operations. Unlike the earlier presidents, the commissioner has broad powers to enforce league rules, negotiate television contracts, and represent the NFL's interests. This position answers to the 32 NFL team owners, who collectively form the league's governing body. The commissioner's role is to act in the best interests of the league as a whole, balancing the competing interests of the individual teams. We will explore the tenures of these leaders, highlighting their key decisions, challenges, and legacies, and how their actions shaped the landscape of professional football.