Commissioner: The Legacy of Pete Rozelle
In my opinion, Pete Rozelle was the most compelling sports executive of the 20th Century and his life and career needed to by written. I am so pleased that it finally has. What is so apparent in reading about this great man is not only his vision, his brilliance, his often understood toughness when he needed to be, but also his incredible humility. He was the most humble super star I have ever been around. To have been able to work on his staff is one of the precious privileges of my life. (Ernie Accorsi, senior vice president and general manager, New York Football Giants )Finally, the inside story of one of the five most important men in the history of football. When you read this book, you'll understand how Pete Rozelle built this game into the American obsession that it is—and you'll understand just who Rozelle was. (Peter KingSports Illustrated)I first became aware of Pete Rozelle when he was with the Los Angeles Rams and I was getting ready to leave USC for the NFL. One of the "biggies" at the Rams had assured me I would be their top draft pick. I wasn't, and because of that, I got to New York 10 years before Rozelle arrived. Our friendship grew over the next almost 30 years and we came to share many great times, sad times, triumphs, and failures. His success as Commissioner is well documented and he is without question the greatest sport executive in all sports history. Not so well documented is his success as a dear friend. He was intensely private about his own personal life. So while we know much about those he touched in so many ways professionally, we will never now the magnitude of kindness and caring to so many of us who were blessed with a truly wonderful friend. Pete Rozelle is a man I truly loved and still miss most every day. (Frank Gifford, NFL Hall of Famer )Pete Rozelle was not only a man of extraordinary integrity, grace, and humility; he was an unparalleled pathfinder in the profession of sports leadership. His remarkable vision and strategic approach helped grow the NFL in ways that no other sports league had ever experienced or considered, thus shaping the imagination and direction of the entire sports landscape. He remains a beacon for me and countless other industry leaders — providing a great example of not only what to do but how to do it. (David Stern, NBA Commissioner )The National Football League reached an awesome point during the Rozelle years. Pete Rozelle's integrity, consistency and vision are woven throughout the League's traditions. Pete was a man of distinction in his era (field). I am grateful for his leadership and friendship. He was a friend from the day I met him in the 1950s. The League will always be in his debt. (Dan Rooney, owner and chairman, Pittsburgh Steelers )