The NFL Partners with NetApp to Strengthen Data Management and Enhance Cybersecurity Across Operations.
The National Football League (NFL) is facing data challenges on an unprecedented scale, as every game generates billions of data points related to player tracking, high-definition video, and multi-platform fan engagement. With this massive volume of information, the need for a robust and efficient data strategy has become a necessity, not an option.
Each season, the NFL processes petabytes of data while managing increasing cybersecurity risks and complying with growing regulatory requirements. However, outdated systems and fragmented data repositories hinder real-time analytics, operational efficiency, and security, posing barriers to innovation.
To address these challenges, the NFL has appointed NetApp as its Official Intelligent Data Infrastructure partner. This global collaboration is aimed at developing integrated, scalable, and secure data systems that will serve both internal operations and enhance fan experiences.
The partnership is part of the NFL’s broader strategy to transition from fragmented storage solutions to centralized, intelligent data systems that enable faster insights and innovation. "This global partnership represents our shared commitment to leveraging intelligent data to drive transformative solutions for the league," says Renie Anderson, Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer at the NFL. Anderson adds, "By combining our expertise with NetApp’s industry-leading intelligent data infrastructure, we can unlock efficiencies that accelerate innovation within our game."
Supporting Global Growth with Data Expertise
With more than 218 million fans in the United States and expanding audiences worldwide in markets such as Mexico, Brazil, the UK, Germany, Spain, and Australia, the NFL is focused on its global expansion. The agreement with NetApp will play a key role in supporting this growth, as the company will be actively involved in the NFL’s 2025 International Games, serving as the presenting sponsor for both the NFL London Games and the first regular-season game to be held in Madrid.
The NFL’s choice of NetApp reflects confidence in the company’s ability to manage large-scale data operations securely. Gary Brantley, Chief Information Officer at the NFL, emphasizes the impact of their collaboration. "Working with NetApp has helped us serve football fans worldwide by streamlining our technology operations and allowing us to better protect our sport," Brantley says. "We strive for innovation and excellence and work with partners who share those values. Over the years, NetApp has earned our trust in meeting those high standards."
Enhancing Security with AI-Driven Protection
Data security remains a central focus of this expanded partnership. The NFL plans to integrate NetApp technology throughout its infrastructure, leveraging tools such as NetApp ONTAP Autonomous Ransomware Protection with artificial intelligence and NetApp cyber vault solutions. These advanced tools are designed to detect suspicious activity and ensure rapid data recovery, minimizing the risk of extended downtime or data loss.
Given that game footage, performance data, and fan interactions must be preserved in real-time, these security features are crucial. The integration of AI-powered cybersecurity enables the NFL to monitor threats autonomously and maintain operational continuity across its global operations, all while ensuring compliance with evolving data regulations in different regions.
Cesar Cernuda, President at NetApp, sees the partnership as an opportunity to enhance both operational efficiency and fan engagement. "The NFL has been a valued customer of NetApp for many years, and we’re excited to expand our relationship," says Cernuda. "By helping the NFL build a smarter data infrastructure, we’re not just modernizing their technology – we’re elevating the sport for football fans everywhere, giving them the tools to adapt to the future."
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