Madden named special advisor to Commissioner

Pro Football Hall of Fame Coach and legendary broadcaster John Madden has been appointed “Special Advisor to the Commissioner,” the NFL announced today.

Madden, who was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a coach in 2006, will advise Commissioner Roger Goddell on matters pertaining to the game, including competitive issues, coaching and personnel development, technological innovations, player safety, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame.  The position will be unpaid.

“John Madden still has tremendous passion for the game and offered to continue to play a constructive role for the league,” Goodell said.  “It was an offer we couldn’t refuse.  His experience, deep knowledge and unique perspective will be a major asset to our game.”

Madden will work with NFL Executive Vice President of Football Operations Ray Anderson  to provide input on multiple football-related issues and also chair the Coaches Subcommittee to the Competition Committee.  Members of the subcommittee and topics for review will be jointly selected by Madden and Commissioner Goodell.  The subcommittee will report to the full Competition Committee prior to the annual meeting. 

“Throughout my life, I have always had a football season,” Madden said.  “As a player, as a coach, and as a broadcaster.  When I retired from broadcasting, I didn’t retire from my passion and interest in the game.  This position enables me to continue that.”

Madden will participate in meetings of the General Managers Advisory Committee and take part in a weekly call with Commissioner Goodell or his designee to discuss issues from the previous week’s games.  Madden will be available as needed for additional consultation.

Madden served as head coach of the Oakland Raiders from 1969-78, leading the club to a 112-39-7 record and a win in Super Bowl XI.  Following his coaching career, Madden turned to television, where for the next 30 years he won 16 Emmys and became one of the most acclaimed sports broadcasters in history, calling NFL games for ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC before retiring on April 16, 2009.