In the high-stakes world of the NFL, talent acquisition is just as crucial as it is in the corporate world. Philadelphia Eagles General Manager Howie Roseman has built a championship-winning team through strategic hiring, talent development, and forward-thinking workforce planning—principles that align perfectly with talent acquisition (TA) best practices in any industry.
So, what can TA leaders learn from Howie Roseman’s approach to assembling a Super Bowl-winning roster?
Long-Term Vision & Succession Planning
One of Roseman’s greatest strengths is his ability to think beyond just the current season. He balances short-term needs with long-term sustainability, ensuring the Eagles remain competitive year after year. He drafts rookies with an eye for the future, grooms internal talent, and secures key contract extensions well before players hit the open market. In talent acquisition, this translates to building a leadership pipeline, developing employees for future roles, and making proactive hiring decisions to ensure business continuity. Just like an NFL team needs to scout talent years in advance, organizations must identify high-potential employees and prepare them to step up when key positions become vacant.
Prioritizing Culture Add & Leadership
Roseman understands that a team is more than just individual talent—it’s about chemistry, leadership, and shared values. The 2024 Eagles weren’t just built on skill alone; they were constructed with players who fit the organization’s culture of hard work, resilience, and accountability. Locker room leaders like Jalen Hurts set the tone for the entire team, ensuring that even the most skilled players buy into the Eagles’ team-first mentality.
Similarly, in talent acquisition, hiring managers must prioritize candidates who align with the company’s core values and leadership philosophy. It’s not just about who can do the job but who will elevate those around them. A high-performing team requires cohesion and a shared sense of purpose, just like a Super Bowl-winning roster.
Strategic Free Agency & Talent Acquisition
The Eagles’ Super Bowl team wasn’t built overnight. Roseman carefully navigated free agency, bringing in key veterans who filled crucial gaps in the roster. He didn’t just go for the biggest names—he sought out players who could immediately contribute and fit seamlessly into the team’s existing structure.
For businesses, this is a lesson in balancing internal promotions with external hiring. While developing talent in-house is vital, companies also need to bring in external expertise when necessary. Strategic hiring should be about more than just filling seats—it should be about identifying the missing pieces that will make the entire organization stronger.
Leveraging Data & Analytics
NFL teams rely on extensive data analysis to evaluate players, predict performance, and minimize risk. Roseman is known for making data-driven decisions, whether in the draft, free agency, or contract negotiations. The Eagles leverage advanced analytics to evaluate player efficiency, injury risks, and overall fit within their system.
Similarly, TA teams can use workforce analytics to optimize hiring strategies. By tracking key metrics like time-to-fill, employee performance, and retention rates, companies can refine their recruitment processes and make more informed hiring decisions. Just like in football, hiring shouldn’t be based on gut feelings alone—it should be backed by data.
Resilience & Adaptability in Hiring
The road to a championship is never smooth. Roseman has faced setbacks—drafting busts, dealing with injuries, and handling unexpected roster changes—but he continuously adapts. He’s quick to pivot when a strategy isn’t working, making adjustments that keep the Eagles competitive year after year.
Talent acquisition leaders must adopt the same mindset. Markets shift, hiring needs change, and unexpected obstacles arise. The best recruiters are those who can stay agile, pivot when needed, and continuously refine their approach to hiring. In business, just as in football, the ability to course-correct is what separates the winners from the rest.
Building Depth & Cross-Functional Skills
One of the biggest reasons for the Eagles’ success was their depth across multiple positions. When injuries struck, they had capable backups ready to step in—proof that Roseman didn’t just focus on star power but also built a well-rounded team. Having versatile players who could adapt to different roles was a key factor in their Super Bowl run.
The same principle applies to business. Companies that invest in cross-training employees and succession planning are better prepared to handle turnover and unforeseen challenges. Just like the Eagles had a strong bench, organizations should develop internal talent so they’re not left scrambling when a key employee leaves. Workforce agility is a competitive advantage.
Talent Acquisition is Your Championship Strategy
Just like in the NFL, winning in talent acquisition requires foresight, strategy, and adaptability. By taking inspiration from Howie Roseman’s playbook, TA leaders can build all-star teams that drive long-term success. Whether it’s making data-driven hiring decisions, ensuring cultural fit, or prioritizing workforce planning, the right talent strategies will position your company as a leader in its field.
A championship team isn’t built in a single season, and neither is a world-class workforce. But with the right approach, you can create a winning culture that stands the test of time.
Are you ready to build your championship team?