Okay, so I’ve always been a HUGE football fan, like, since I was a kid. And I always had this crazy dream: What if I started an NFL team? Sounds insane, right? But I decided to actually look into it, like, really dig in and see what it would actually take. It was way more complicated than I ever imagined!
First Steps: The Mountain of Money
First thing I did was, obviously, Google it. “How to start an NFL team.” The results were… intimidating. We’re talking SERIOUS cash. I’m not a billionaire, not even close. So, step one was figuring out the finances.
- Finding Investors: I started talking to, well, anyone who would listen. Friends, family, even that weird uncle who always talks about his “big ideas.” I pitched them my vision, my (very rough) plan. Most of them just chuckled, but a couple were intrigued. This was going to be about finding people with DEEP pockets and a love for the game.
- Calculating Costs: This was a beast. I had to research EVERYTHING. The franchise fee itself is astronomical, then you have stadium costs (building or leasing), player salaries, staff salaries, equipment, travel… it just kept going. I made spreadsheets. Lots and lots of spreadsheets. It was eye-opening, and honestly, a little terrifying.
Building a Foundation: More Than Just Players
Then I realized, it’s not just about money. It’s about, you know, building a team. So, I started looking at that side of things, pretending I suddenly had billions to spare. I started doing a deep dive into these questions:
- Hiring a General Manager and a Coach that can take over the team: Finding People with very good resume that can provide solid track record.
- Hiring scout team: Finding People who can provide sharp eyes for young and potential atheletes.
The Dream Realized? (Not Quite)
After all this research, did I start an NFL team? Nope. Not even close. But I learned a TON. I got a glimpse into the insane world of professional sports ownership. It’s a world of high stakes, intense pressure, and, yeah, a whole lot of money.
While I might not be signing any quarterbacks anytime soon, it was an awesome thought experiment. It made me appreciate the game, and the people behind it, even more. Maybe one day, if I win the lottery AND find a few billionaire friends, I’ll give it a shot for real. But for now, I’m happy watching from the sidelines, knowing a little bit more about what it takes to make it all happen.