In a major shakeup across the sports business landscape, NFL Chief Media and Business Officer Brian Rolapp is departing the league to become the new CEO of the PGA Tour, Front Office Sports has confirmed. The move marks a significant shift for both organizations, with Rolapp’s deep experience in media rights and digital strategy expected to reshape the PGA Tour’s trajectory.
Rolapp’s Departure Signals NFL Transition
Rolapp, widely regarded as the NFL’s No. 2 executive and a potential successor to Commissioner Roger Goodell, played a pivotal role in shaping the league’s media empire. He was the architect behind the NFL’s groundbreaking 11-year, $111 billion media rights deal, which integrated traditional networks like NBC, CBS, Fox, and ESPN with streaming giants such as Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, and Netflix.
While Goodell’s contract runs through 2027, ongoing extension talks likely influenced Rolapp’s decision to take on a top leadership role where he could “run his own shop,” sources told FOS.
PGA Tour Gains Media Powerhouse Amid LIV Golf Battle
Rolapp steps into the PGA Tour CEO position at a critical time. The organization is in fierce competition with LIV Golf, backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which has lured top players and disrupted the golf world with $20 million purses. Although LIV’s momentum slowed after Jon Rahm’s departure in late 2023, talks of a merger and ongoing investment discussions with the PIF continue.
The PGA Tour’s TV ratings have begun to rebound in 2025 following a down year, bolstered by increased prize money and efforts to unify the sport. Rolapp’s expertise in expanding digital platforms and monetizing media is expected to be instrumental in navigating these challenges.
NFL Readies for Post-Rolapp Era
To ensure continuity, the NFL will divide Rolapp’s responsibilities among top executives including Hans Schroeder (EVP, Media Distribution), David Jurenka (SVP, NFL Media), and Mike North (VP, Broadcast Planning). A permanent replacement has not yet been announced.
In a memo to NFL team owners, Roger Goodell stated:
“We have spent some time planning for this change and are confident we will successfully manage the responsibilities while we align our structure to meet our long-term strategic goals.”
Strategic Connections and Future Growth
Rolapp’s move was met with enthusiasm across the industry. New LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil, a former Harvard Business School classmate, expressed optimism about collaborating in the evolving golf landscape.
Meanwhile, the PGA Tour continues negotiations with investors. The Strategic Sports Group committed $1.5 billion in 2024 to PGA Tour Enterprises, with an option to double. The Saudi PIF may follow, but no agreement has been finalized.
Conclusion
With Brian Rolapp at the helm, the PGA Tour is poised to evolve its media presence, global strategy, and competitive positioning. As the battle between traditional golf and LIV continues, Rolapp’s leadership could be the key to driving growth, unity, and innovation in professional golf.
