For nearly a century, the road to the NFL has often run through Fordham.
It’s a legacy best exemplified by legendary coach Vince Lombardi ’37, the namesake of the Super Bowl trophy. He graces the Pro Football Hall of Fame alongside fellow Fordham grads Alex Wojciechowicz ’38 and longtime New York Giants owner Wellington Mara ’37.
But Fordham’s influence on the NFL isn’t just a matter of history.
The tradition continues on the field (with players like Commanders running back Chase Edmonds ’18 and Nick Zakelj ’21, ’22 MS, of the 49ers) and in the front office (Giants owner John Mara ’79 JD and Eagles general manager Howie Roseman ’00 JD have each lifted the Lombardy Trophy twice).
Behind the scenes, a new generation of Rams is using data, law, and strategy to help shape the future of the nation’s most popular sport. We caught up with three Fordham grads working in the NFL league offices.
The Data Analyst: Turning Numbers into Daily Action Plans
Data analyst Chris Orlando ’24 works directly with 12 of the league’s teams to turn vast amounts of data—from ticketing trends to merchandise—into actionable insights. A New Jersey native, he interned with the New York Giants as an undergrad before landing his current position with the league.
“I love waking up every day knowing I get to talk football. It’s really cool showing up to work when you don’t feel like you’re working. That’s why I wanted to go into sports in the first place.”
The Legal Counsel: Tackling Labor Relations
Labor relations counsel Janelle L. Winston ’04 JD represents the NFL and its member clubs in labor-management disputes. A Fordham Law graduate and longtime adjunct professor, she credits the school for making her fearless and unafraid to take risks—a key reason she went for the position. And she loves to connect with teams around the country.
“When I am in Detroit, I am a Lion; when I am in New Orleans, I am a Saint. It keeps the work exciting and dynamic. I travel frequently, build relationships with various front offices, and have the opportunity to explore stadium cities.”
The Strategist: Mapping the Future of Football
R.J. Paige ’24 JD is a senior manager for football business strategy and innovation. He earned a law degree through Fordham Law School’s evening program while working full time for the league. He says that has given him a network of fellow Fordham-trained attorneys to rely on and an opportunity to work on a variety of agreements and policy decisions focused on the future of football.
“I love my work supporting future of football efforts such as state-of-the-art computer vision tracking technology, custom communications devices for officiating, and the NFL’s partnership with its players and fans through development of interactive platforms to educate them on player benefits, playing rules, and our ever-expanding flag football initiatives. The work continues to challenge me to grow. That excites me.”
