Updates

In partnership with the Black College Football Hall of Fame, the NFL announced the inaugural Ozzie Newsome General Manager Forum and the fourth annual Quarterback Coaching Summit. From June 21-23, front-office personnel and coaches from the NFL and NCAA will take part in the virtual programs to experience professional development and networking opportunities with NFL club executives. 

“The Ozzie Newsome General Manager Forum and Quarterback Coaching Summit are part of our ongoing efforts to break mobility barriers, establish a cultural norm of opportunity for all, and a steadfast commitment to developing a diverse and inclusive workforce,” said Troy Vincent, NFL Executive Vice President of Football Operations. “Participants will be exposed to best practices used by the brightest and most creative minds in football as well as networking opportunities to build relationships and gain personal insights.”

Participants will learn best practices used by quarterback coaches, offensive coordinators, head coaches and general managers. The Forum will provide a platform to help prepare, educate, and identify quality minority candidates. The Summit will also feature various topics, including how to build a coaching staff and winning culture, the qualities of a head coach, and networking opportunities for career advancement.

“There is an immense amount of diverse talent in the front office and on the offensive side of the ball around the country,” said Doug Williams, Black College Football Hall of Fame co-founder. “It is important to allow these bright individuals the opportunity to showcase their skills to NFL executives and media. We hope the exposure the participants receive from this event results in advancement opportunities.”

The June 21 Ozzie Newsome General Manager Forum will feature sessions and panels led by NFL owners and front-office personnel, including:

• Steve Bisciotti, Baltimore Ravens Owner
• James “Shack” Harris, Black College Football Hall of Fame co-founder
• John Mara, New York Giants Owner
• Reggie McKenzie, Miami Dolphins Senior Personnel Executive
• Ozzie Newsome, Baltimore Ravens Executive Vice President
• Kim Pegula, Buffalo Bills Owner and President

The June 22-23 Quarterback Coaching Summit will feature sessions and panels led by NFL owners, current and former coaches, and front-office personnel, including:

• Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, Cleveland Browns Vice President of Football Operations
• Bruce Arians, Tampa Bay Buccaneers Head Coach
• Bill Belichick, New England Patriots Head Coach
• Arthur M. Blank, Atlanta Falcons Owner and Chairman
• Andy Reid, Kansas City Chiefs Head Coach
• Art Rooney II, Pittsburgh Steelers President and NFL Workplace Diversity Committee Chair