One of the best ways to learn about the game of football is to dive into the pages of a book. I’ve grown especially fond of those written by NFL insiders and those who have played, managed, or coached in the league.
Included below is a list of pro football books I’ve read that I not only really enjoyed but think you will as well.
My Reading List
A Season in the Sun by Lars Anderson
“The extraordinary behind-the-scenes story of how Coach Bruce Arians, Tom Brady, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers came together to deliver one of the most improbable Super Bowl victories in NFL history.”
You Negotiate like a Girl by Amy Trask
“An incomparable memoir of business and football from the woman known as “The Princess of Darkness.”
Playmakers: How the NFL Really Works by Mike Florio
“The story of a modern NFL that can’t get out of its own way—and can’t stop making money”
Talking to GOATs by Jim Gray
“A riveting, insightful memoir of never-before-told stories from Jim Gray, twelve-time Emmy Award-winner, Hall of Fame sports broadcaster, and renowned interviewer— that explores the author’s career and the inside stories and memorable moments of the famous legends he has covered including, Muhammad Ali, Tom Brady, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Michael Jordan and Mike Tyson.”
Believe It by Nick Foles
“When the Philadelphia Eagles’ starting quarterback went down with a torn ACL in week 14 of the 2017 NFL season, many fans―and commentators―assumed the Eagles’ season was over.
Instead, Nick Foles came off the bench and, against all odds, led the Eagles to their first Super Bowl victory in history.”
It’s Better to be Feared by Seth Wickersham
“The explosive, long-awaited account of the making of the greatest dynasty in football history―from the acclaimed ESPN reporter who has been there from the very beginning.”
The Quarterback Whisperer by Bruce Arians
“What is an elite NFL QB and what separates that player from the others? One answer is the coach they share. In the recent history of the biggest game on earth, one man is the common thread that connects several of the very best in the sport: Peyton Manning; Ben Roethlisberger; Andrew Luck; and the resurgent Carson Palmer. That coach is Bruce Arians.”
Gridiron Genius by Michael Lombardi
“Former NFL general manager and three-time Super Bowl winner Michael Lombardi reveals what makes football organizations tick at the championship level.”
The Seven Crucibles by Alec Ingold (Dolphins FB)
“Alec Ingold delivers a hands-on playbook for conquering every obstacle that stands between you and success, on the playing field and in life. You’ll learn to utilize your own story of trials and tribulations to help embrace the changes to create future success.”
Take Your Eye Off the Ball 2.0: How to Watch Football by Knowing Where to Look by Pat Kirwan
“Renowned NFL analysts’ tips to make football more accessible, colorful, and compelling than ever before.”