The Varsity Hans Schroeder’s NFL Media Huddle
Nov 9, 2025
Hans Schroeder, a veteran NFL media executive, shares insights into the league's evolving media strategy. He discusses the significance of reach in future media rights deals and the surprising resilience of traditional broadcasters. Hans recounts the NFL's initial digital ventures and how they shaped current strategies for streaming partners like Netflix and Amazon. He also touches on international expansion, the rationale behind the NFL's stake in ESPN, and the potential role of AI in revolutionizing scheduling. A must-listen for sports media enthusiasts!
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Long NFL Tenure And Role Shift
- Hans celebrated 24 years at the NFL and recalled starting on October 15, 2001 during a turbulent time.
- He described working closely with Brian Rolapp and how responsibilities shifted after Rolapp left for the PGA Tour.
Centralized Rights Strategy
- The NFL is centralizing media, scheduling, digital, social and Sunday Ticket under one group to deploy rights globally.
- Hans sees this unified approach as a way to be more efficient and better prepared for future negotiations.
Preparedness For Early Negotiations
- The NFL is open to early rights talks and has historically negotiated deals ahead of contractual deadlines.
- Hans emphasizes listening to partners and being ready whenever negotiations begin.