NFL Approves Private Equity Stakes in Bills, Dolphins, Eagles, and Raiders

Dec 11, 2024, 03:52 PM

NFL owners have approved a significant shift in the league's ownership paradigm, allowing private equity firms to invest in teams for the first time. The Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins have become the first franchises to officially bring in private-equity investors, with Arctos Partners buying a 10% stake in the Bills and Ares Management acquiring a 10% interest in the Dolphins. These deals also included traditional limited partners, such as NBA legends Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady joining the Bills' ownership group. Additionally, the Philadelphia Eagles received approval for the sale of an 8% interest to two family investment groups, valuing the team at a staggering $8.3 billion, while Jeffrey Lurie retains full control. The Raiders also got the green light to sell 15% of their franchise, with Mark Davis remaining the controlling owner. This influx of private equity investment signifies a new era for NFL team ownership, potentially leading to higher valuations and more financial flexibility for team owners.