Ranking all 32 NFL owners based on their leaked NFLPA report card grade: Steelers get D-, one team got an F
CBS Sports
by
John Breech
March 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The NFLPA report card grades leaked earlier this year revealed a fascinating look into how NFL players rate their team owners. The grading system, which allows anonymous player evaluations across 17 categories, provides insight into ownership performance and player relations. With over 1,759 players participating in the survey conducted from November 2024 to December 2024, the results highlight significant differences in owner ratings, ranging from an impressive A+ for top-performing teams to a surprising F for one unnamed franchise.
The highest grades, including A+, were awarded to ownership groups like the Broncos (Walton-Penner family), Vikings (Wilf family), and Commanders (Josh Harris). These teams have set a high standard for player treatment and organizational success. The Broncos and Commanders both reached conference title games in recent seasons, while the Vikings achieved an remarkable feat by receiving an A+ grade for the third consecutive year. This level of consistency has earned them significant respect from players.
Teams with A grades include the Falcons, Lions, Texans, Colts, Jaguars, Raiders, Dolphins, and Seahawks. Notably, the Seahawks made a substantial improvement, jumping to an A despite Jody Allen's impending ownership transition. The Raiders and Dolphins, despite their lack of playoff success, received strong marks for their investment in facilities and player care. This underscores the importance of owner commitment to both on-field performance and off-field support.
B-grade owners include the Cowboys, Rams, Jets, Eagles, Giants, Ravens, Bills, Bears, Chargers, Saints, Packers, and 49ers. While these teams vary in playoff success, their owners were recognized for fostering positive player relationships and addressing concerns from previous years. For example, the Jets' owner Woody Johnson saw a significant improvement, moving up from an F to a B after addressing player feedback.
The Panthers and Patriots received B- grades, reflecting mixed reviews. Robert Kraft's Patriots saw an upgrade from last year's D grade, likely due to their Super Bowl appearance in 2025. However, the Giants faced criticism for their general manager situation, with Joe Schoen earning a D+ in player evaluations.
This report card matters because it offers transparency into how ownership impacts team dynamics and player satisfaction. High grades often correlate with successful on-field performances, while low grades can signal areas needing improvement. For fans, this insight provides a deeper understanding of the challenges and successes within NFL organizations, ultimately influencing fan sentiment and franchise value.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 3/2/2026