The history of sports docuseries can be seen in the walls and halls of an office complex in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, near Philadelphia. NFL Films’ headquarters in South Jersey is decorated with classic football magazine covers, original artwork by Steve Sabol, and a film archive holding decades of footage. This treasure trove of content powers the studio’s documentary programming.
Former New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick was also spotted wandering the halls, preparing for an appearance on ESPN’s Manningcast. NFL Films, founded in 1962, played a significant role in shaping the sports doc format we know today. Despite its rich tradition, the company is embracing change to meet the growing demand for sports content.
NFL Films is now focusing on personality-driven programming, such as the upcoming late-night show hosted by Philadelphia Eagles legend Jason Kelce. This shift towards more engaging and unique content reflects the evolving landscape of sports media.
In addition to producing innovative shows, NFL Films is also pioneering a new version of the popular series Hard Knocks. The upcoming in-season edition will follow four teams from the AFC North, injecting high stakes and excitement into the football season.
As the league’s gateway to new audiences, NFL Films continues to push the boundaries of sports storytelling while honoring its rich history. With a culture of risk-taking and innovation, the company remains at the forefront of the sports docuseries genre.
This article first appeared in The Hollywood Reporter magazine. Subscribe to stay updated on the latest in sports media and entertainment.
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