As summer continues in Seattle, a new NFL season is about to begin. This season, we’re witnessing a groundbreaking shift in the league’s leadership. For the first time in history, one out of every three NFL teams is now run or co-owned by women, and Seattle is a part of that revolution.
How women are reshaping the NFL in Seattle and beyond
Jim Irsay’s three daughters are stepping up to take the reins of the Indianapolis Colts. With this move, the NFL has quietly hit a remarkable milestone—women now lead 12 out of 32 franchises.
This isn’t just a small step; it’s a giant leap for diversity in sports leadership. Whether you’re a die-hard Seahawks fan or just love the camaraderie of a Sunday game day at your favorite Capitol Hill bar, this is a moment worth celebrating.
Women are leading the way
You might be wondering, how did we get here? Well, let’s rewind the clock. The NFL had a long stretch—almost 30 years—without a single woman owner until 1947, when Violet Bidwell made history with the then-Chicago Cardinals.
Not only did she break new ground, but she also snagged a championship that very same year. Fast forward to today, and you’ll find women at the helm of teams in cities like Chicago, Detroit, Buffalo, Cleveland, San Francisco, Las Vegas, New Orleans, Indianapolis, and of course, Seattle.
And for our fellow Seattleites, this change resonates deeply with our city’s own spirit of innovation, progress, and inclusion. It’s also a reminder that in a place where tech giants rise and bold ideas thrive, breaking barriers isn’t just encouraged. It’s expected.
Perhaps you want to know what this means for the future of the league. Could a woman commissioner be next? It’s a fascinating thought, especially when you consider the growing influence women have across the board.