In the NFL, a strong front office is key to consistent success on the field. The Athletic surveyed 40 league insiders to rank the top team front offices, with a scoring system granting points based on rank order. The results favored teams with long-tenured general managers (GMs) and emphasized the importance of a sound process in talent recruitment, contract drafting, and understanding team dynamics.
The Baltimore Ravens’ front office, helmed by GM Eric DeCosta, claimed the top spot. Recognized for talent, acquisition, and fostering a stable environment, DeCosta’s approach has ensured consistent success for the Ravens since longtime GM Ozzie Newsome stepped down five years ago. An important factor in the Ravens’ success has been their distinct understanding of their team identity and expectations.
The Kansas City Chiefs’ front office ranked second, with GM Brett Veach and head coach Andy Reid lauded for their successful partnership. A critical factor in their success has been their eye for talent, as well as their early action on superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ deal before the QB market escalated. As an organization, they’re seen as having stability, continuity, and a deep understanding of the winning formula.
Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers’ front office came in third, because of their team’s consistently strong performance on the field. They’re known for their deep roster, the cultivation of talent, and being in sync on their team-building vision. GM John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan’s well-executed vision has already seen two Super Bowl appearances and four NFC Championship games in five years.
Ranked fourth is the Philadelphia Eagles’ front office, led by GM Howie Roseman, who’s praised for his progressive analytical approach. His proactive strategy and his effective talent assessment have kept the Eagles in the playoff conversation fairly consistently, regardless of coaching changes.
The Detroit Lions front office, under the leadership of GM Brad Holmes, ranked fifth. The Lions’ turnaround under his guidance was cited as remarkable, as Holmes successfully acquired players perfectly fitting head coach Dan Campbell’s style and vision.
The Green Bay Packers came in sixth, mainly due to the consistency within their front office, led by GM Brian Gutekunst, and their ability to rebuild and develop young talent. Understanding of their team, lack of discouragement by external consensus, and trust in their process were noted as their strengths.
