Imagine a groundbreaking ceremony for a brand-new NFL practice facility turning into a heated debate about team leadership. That’s exactly what happened when Arizona Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill found himself in the hot seat over a seemingly simple question: Why doesn’t the team have a president? And this is the part most people miss—Bidwill’s response wasn’t just a brush-off; it sparked a conversation about the role of ownership in team management and whether one person can truly wear all the hats.
During the event, as reported by Theo Mackie of the Arizona Republic, Bidwill was repeatedly pressed on the absence of a team president. His answer? A straightforward, “I am the team president.” When asked why the team doesn’t have a president independent from ownership, his reply remained consistent: “I am the team president.” But here’s where it gets controversial—when questioned if this was the best way to operate the team, Bidwill simply said, “Next question.”
Let’s break this down. Only seven NFL franchises, including the Cardinals, operate without a president. The others are the Cowboys, Giants, Buccaneers, Bengals, Steelers, and Colts. The Cardinals, however, aren’t lacking in leadership roles—they have a General Manager (G.M.), Chief Operating Officer (COO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Legal Officer, and Chief People Officer. So, why not a president?
Here’s the kicker: Hiring a team president would mean adding a significant expense to the budget. By taking on the role himself, Bidwill effectively turns what would be a salary and benefits package into additional profit. It’s a business decision, but is it the best one for the team’s long-term success?
This raises a thought-provoking question: Does consolidating power in the hands of the owner streamline operations, or does it create a bottleneck that could hinder growth? Some argue that an independent president brings fresh perspectives and checks and balances, while others believe direct ownership involvement ensures alignment with the team’s vision.
What do you think? Is Bidwill’s approach a savvy cost-saving strategy, or is the Cardinals missing out on the benefits of a dedicated team president? Let’s hear your take in the comments—this is one debate that’s far from over.
