In a powerful blend of sports, leadership, controversy, and triumph, Netflix has officially announced the release of “The Underdog,” a compelling new original documentary chronicling the life, legacy, and behind-the-scenes journey of former NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue. Slated for global release this fall, the film promises an unfiltered exploration of Tagliabue’s unlikely rise to power, the critical decisions that shaped the NFL as we know it today, and his close relationships with some of the league’s most legendary Hall of Fame players.
This documentary arrives at a time when fans, analysts, and historians alike are eager to revisit the era that saw football transition from a national pastime into a global powerhouse. Tagliabue, often described as one of the most influential yet underappreciated sports executives in American history, took over as commissioner in 1989 and served through 2006, overseeing a time of massive growth, expansion, and transformation in the league.
Produced by Netflix Sports Originals in collaboration with Emmy-winning director Nate Lawrence and NFL Films, “The Underdog” spans over two hours of rare archival footage, in-depth interviews, and untold stories that shine a light on Tagliabue’s role in shaping the modern NFL. But the film doesn’t stop at the boardroom or league office—it dives into his personal life, his early days as a lawyer and athlete, and the battles he fought off-camera, including controversies over labor strikes, concussions, and player safety protocols.
What makes “The Underdog” particularly unique is its focus on the bond Tagliabue shared with some of the game’s most iconic figures. Viewers will hear firsthand accounts from Hall of Famers like Jerry Rice, Troy Aikman, Warren Sapp, and Shannon Sharpe, who reflect not only on their own careers but also on how Tagliabue’s decisions impacted their lives and the sport as a whole.
Former Steelers coach Bill Cowher, also featured prominently in the film, shares a riveting account of the 1990s expansion, the rise of televised primetime games, and the commissioner’s steady hand through the chaos of September 11th, 2001—a moment many insiders believe defined Tagliabue’s legacy. “He wasn’t flashy,” Cowher remarks in one clip. “But he was fearless. He knew the league needed to evolve, and he wasn’t afraid of the backlash.”
The documentary also dives into some of the more contentious chapters of Tagliabue’s tenure, including his response to player protests, the criticism he received for not doing more on the issue of long-term health effects from football-related injuries, and the transitional challenges he faced while handing over power to Roger Goodell.
“The Underdog” is not just a documentary about football—it’s a story of leadership under pressure, of a man who operated in the shadow of giant personalities, but who ultimately helped lay the foundation for the NFL’s current success. From the locker room to the courtroom, the film paints a vivid portrait of a leader driven not by ego, but by a quiet sense of duty to the sport he loved.
In a statement, Netflix VP of Documentaries Sandra Blake said, “We’re proud to tell the story of Paul Tagliabue, a man whose impact is often overlooked, but whose fingerprints are all over the modern NFL. This film is not just for football fans—it’s for anyone who’s ever felt underestimated, who’s had to lead in silence, and who’s had to fight for the respect they deserved.”
“The Underdog” will be available exclusively on Netflix, with a limited theatrical premiere scheduled in New York and Los Angeles ahead of its streaming debut. Early buzz from industry insiders suggests that this could be a serious contender during awards season, with its mixture of gripping narrative, historical relevance, and emotional depth.
As the NFL prepares for another season of headlines and heroics, “The Underdog” serves as a powerful reminder of the unsung figures who built the league’s foundation—brick by brick, play by play, and decision by decision. For Paul Tagliabue, the spotlight has finally arrived—and it’s shining brighter than ever.
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