Exclusive: Breakout NFL Executives Who Could Become Future General Managers

Hiring opportunities for top NFL executives are not common, but they occur less frequently than coaching changes. In the most recent hiring cycle, 10 head coaches stepped down, while only three general manager positions became available. Newsweek spoke with various sources in the NFL to identify promising candidates for future general manager roles and to understand their responsibilities.

Many of these candidates have extensive experience in the cap side of the business. Generally, league owners select general managers who come from the scouting background. Although scouting is crucial, it only accounts for a small portion of a general manager's duties. They are also responsible for setting an organizational vision, handling adversity, and making critical decisions such as drafting players.

The success rate for first-round draft picks is around 67%, with a significant drop-off in subsequent rounds. New general managers will often inherit teams with problematic contracts that need to be addressed to improve competitiveness. Those who can value players correctly will be able to sign them at reasonable prices, allowing the team to acquire more talent rather than overpaying for marginal improvements.

Former Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman, who has a broad background in the sport, is a prime example of an executive with strong data skills. Roseman, who began as a college scout and later became a cap expert, understands the importance of diverse leadership experience. A two-time Super Bowl champion, Roseman emphasizes the significance of cap management, resource allocation, and setting the team's vision.

Here are some executive candidates who are being considered for general manager positions in the upcoming hiring cycle:

1. Trent Harris, the San Francisco 49ers' football operations intern (2003), has held various roles within the organization, including director of football administration and analytics and vice president of football administration. He currently serves as assistant general manager and is the architect behind the 49ers' salary cap strategy.

2. Adam Peters, the Washington Commanders' general manager, turned around the team's fortunes during his first season in 2024. Peters learned valuable lessons from Howie Roseman during his time with the 49ers, including the importance of cap management and negotiation skills.

These executives demonstrate an ability to manage cap strategies, make informed decisions, and build competitive teams, making them strong contenders for future general manager positions.