Who Actually Makes Trades Inside an NFL Front Office?

NFL general managers lead trade decisions, but scouts, player personnel executives, salary cap specialists, analysts, and coaches can all contribute to the process.

A trade might be announced in seconds, but the work behind it involves several departments.

General Manager

The general manager oversees roster construction and evaluates whether a proposed trade aligns with the team's competitive and long-term goals.

Scouting and Player Personnel

Scouts and personnel executives evaluate players, study game film, compare talent, and help determine a player's potential value.

Aspiring scouts and personnel professionals can explore these responsibilities through SMWW's Football GM & Scouting course.

Salary Cap and Football Operations

Salary cap specialists analyze contract obligations, available cap space, and the financial consequences of acquiring or trading a player.