The NFLPA’s 2025 Team Report Cards: A Player’s Perspective
The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) has released its third annual club report cards, offering a detailed glimpse into the workplace conditions that professional football players experience daily. The rankings, which are based on feedback from 1,695 players collected between August 26 and November 20, 2024, provide a comprehensive view of how players perceive their respective teams. The Miami Dolphins retained their top position, followed closely by the Minnesota Vikings, Atlanta Falcons, Las Vegas Raiders, and Los Angeles Chargers. In contrast, the Arizona Cardinals, New England Patriots, Cleveland Browns, New York Jets, and Pittsburgh Steelers were rated the lowest, with issues ranging from poor treatment of families to subpar facilities.
Treatment of Families: A Critical Component
For many NFL players, especially those with families, the treatment of their loved ones is a crucial aspect of their workplace satisfaction. Game day should be a time for players to focus entirely on the game, but those with children have to ensure that their kids are taken care of and have a place to go. Surprisingly, only 29 out of 32 teams offer daycare services, and even fewer have dedicated family rooms at their stadiums. The Cincinnati Bengals, who received an F- for the treatment of families, are the only team to offer neither of these amenities. One player described the situation as "almost disrespectful." The Los Angeles Rams, who charge $75 for one child and $50 for each additional child, also came under criticism, although the San Francisco 49ers offer a more affordable rate at $40 per child. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, previously charging $90 per child, have stopped this practice entirely, an improvement noted by players.
Food and Dining: Fuel for Performance
The quality of food provided at team facilities can significantly impact a player’s performance and overall well-being. Players spend a considerable amount of time at practice facilities, and having access to good, nutritious meals is essential. Unfortunately, the Cincinnati Bengals received the only F grade in this category, ranking 32nd out of 32 teams. Players rated the taste of the food at 4.82 out of 10 and the freshness at 5.49 out of 10. The New York Jets, who struggled with a D- grade last year, decided to cut the food budget and fire their long-time dietician, leading players to believe that management was making conditions worse rather than addressing concerns. On the positive side, the Miami Dolphins and Houston Texans received A grades, indicating that their food services are among the best in the league.
Locker Rooms: A Hub of Team Dynamics
Locker rooms are more than just places to change; they are central to a team’s dynamics and culture. The Washington Commanders received an F grade this year, a marginal improvement from their F- last year. Players cited ongoing plumbing issues, with 37% still reporting problems. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers also faced complaints about the cleanliness and poor ventilation in their locker room, leading to a persistent bad smell. The Atlanta Falcons, despite their A+ grade, also reported a ventilation issue causing a similar odor. The Kansas City Chiefs, after receiving an F last year, managed to improve to a D- with ownership making necessary changes during the off-season. However, the New York Jets and New England Patriots still have work to do, with complaints about stained and worn-out carpets and dingy floors, respectively.
Team Travel: Comfort and Convenience
Travel is a significant part of an NFL player’s life, and the comfort and convenience of team travel can greatly affect their performance and well-being. The New England Patriots received an F for team travel, with players noting that the team’s plane is outdated, featuring ashtrays in the armrests and lacking Wi-Fi. The Kansas City Chiefs’ home game hotel received the lowest score across the entire NFL, with players describing it as below standard, uncomfortable, and dirty. The Miami Dolphins and Las Vegas Raiders, both rated A+, offer top-notch travel experiences, with comfortable accommodations and modern amenities that help players stay relaxed and focused.
Ownership: The Linchpin of Team Culture
The role of team ownership cannot be overstated in creating a positive and supportive environment for players. Woody Johnson of the New York Jets received the lowest marks, with the Jets being the only team to get an F in this category. Players felt that Johnson does not contribute to a positive team culture and is only somewhat committed to building a contending team. This perception is reflected in the team’s rankings for facility investment and building a competitive roster, where they placed last and second-to-last, respectively. The Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, and Atlanta Falcons were among the top-rated teams in this category, with players appreciating the owners’ commitment to their well-being and the team’s success.
Conclusion: A Path to Improvement
The NFLPA’s report cards serve as a vital tool for players to voice their concerns and for teams to address issues that directly impact their daily lives. While some teams like the Miami Dolphins and Minnesota Vikings continue to excel, others, such as the Cincinnati Bengals and New York Jets, have significant room for improvement. The feedback highlights areas such as family treatment, food quality, locker room conditions, and travel experiences, which are essential for maintaining a positive and productive team environment. By taking these report cards seriously and making the necessary changes, teams can not only improve player satisfaction but also enhance their performance on the field.
