Stephen Ross: The NFL’s Most Generous Team Owner

In the fast-paced world of NFL team ownership, businessman Stephen Ross stands out as a beacon of generosity, as revealed in the latest NFLPA Player Report Card. The report, compiled from feedback shared by 1,695 NFL players, sheds light on the working conditions within each franchise to inform players across the league. Analyzing this data, the Action Network pinpointed the most and least generous team owners in the league.

At 85 years old, Stephen Ross, the owner of the Miami Dolphins, has been crowned the NFL’s most generous team owner. With the Dolphins receiving top marks in every category of the 2025 NFLPA Player Report Card, Ross’s dedication to his players is evident. His success in the real estate realm has not only allowed him to build a $60 billion global real estate firm, Related Companies, but also to invest in various ventures like fitness brands SoulCycle and Equinox, as well as owning Hard Rock Stadium and engaging in major real estate projects like Hudson Yards in Manhattan.

Despite Ross’s generosity towards players, coaches, and families, the Miami Dolphins haven’t claimed a Super Bowl victory since Super Bowl VIII in 1973. However, the team’s status as the 11th most valuable NFL franchise demonstrates that financial investment does not always equate to on-field success.

In a league of 32 different approaches to running a franchise, Stephen Ross and the Miami Dolphins lead the pack in quality of life for current players. Following closely behind are other notable team owners like Arthur Blank of the Atlanta Falcons, Janice McNair of the Houston Texans, Stephen Bisciotti of the Baltimore Ravens, and Denise and John York of the San Francisco 49ers. On the flip side, Michael Bidwill of the Arizona Cardinals and Robert Kraft of the New England Patriots rank as the least generous team owners in the NFL.

In a realm where competitive spirits run high, Stephen Ross’s commitment to his players shines through, highlighting the importance of balancing generosity with strategic decision-making in the world of professional football ownership.

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