NFL to Use Artificial Intelligence in Landmark Deal with Microsoft
The NFL has announced a groundbreaking strategic alliance with Microsoft, ushering in a new era of artificial intelligence (AI) integration in professional American football. The collaboration will enhance recruitment, optimize play-calling, and boost player performance across all 32 teams in the league.
How Will the NFL Use AI?
According to the league, AI-powered cloud solutions will allow coaches to analyze player performance in real time, enabling faster and more precise in-game decisions.
Sean McVay, head coach of the Los Angeles Rams, highlighted that AI will help transform complex data into clear insights that can be relayed to players in seconds, ensuring they are placed in the best tactical position possible.
The Visualization System and League-Wide Data
A cornerstone of this transformation is the update to the NFL’s Sideline Visualization System, now equipped with more than 2,500 computers to track all 1,800 active players in the league.
Through this tool, coaches will be able to filter plays by distance, scoring situations, penalties, or defensive coverages, simplifying the design of tailored strategies for every game scenario.
Impact on Player Safety and Operations
AI will not only influence tactics but also contribute to player safety. The NFL Players Association will have access to the technology to enhance video review processes and detect injury risk patterns.
The system will also log key incidents during games — such as weather delays or technical problems — to improve logistics and decision-making in future matchups.
A New Era for the NFL
Gary Brantley, the league’s Chief Information Officer, emphasized that this marks a new era of innovation where technology is used to increase competitiveness and enrich the fan experience.
Microsoft celebrated the agreement as well. Bryson Gordon, the company’s Vice President of Global Marketing, said:
“This is more than a football story; it’s a transformation plan.”