🏈Shaping the Game: Insights from Over 20 Years in the NFL

A Career Built on Football and Law

Growing up on Long Island, Dave was immersed in football from an early age. His father, Joe, was a coach for the New York Jets in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, making football a family affair. Dave’s own playing career led him to Brown University, where he played quarterback. "I always had a desire to work in sports, especially being around my dad," he says. Though he considered coaching, his father guided him toward law school at Hofstra, where he balanced earning his law degree with assisting his father’s football program. That exposure to high-level coaching and future NFL coaches like Dan Quinn and Raheem Morris shaped his understanding of the game. Dave’s legal background became the foundation for his career in football business. After securing an internship with the NFL Management Council, he impressed enough to remain through law school. "It was really my dream job," he recalls. His mentors advised him to gain experience in a traditional law firm, and for seven years, he honed his skills in complex litigation at Kasowitz, Benson, Torres & Friedman, while maintaining a connection to the NFL through arbitration cases.

In 2003, he rejoined the league as labor relations counsel. Over the next decade, he negotiated collective bargaining agreements and handled high-stakes labor disputes, including the 2011 player lockout and the 2012 game officials’ lockout. "It was an incredible learning experience," he says. In 2014, Dave transitioned to football operations, working with the competition committee, officiating, and integrity policies, influencing how the league evolved both on and off the field. He also played a key role in the NFL Draft and traveled to over 40 games annually, overseeing game operations and compliance, as well as serving in a critical role with the officiating department as the editor of the nfl rulebook. In 2024, Dave joined the Washington Commanders as Senior Vice President of Football Initiatives, a new challenge that included working directly with the coaching staff on game management, serving on the headset during games, and strategizing key scenarios. "I’m excited about what’s ahead," he shares. At the Commanders, Dave bridges football operations, strategy, and game-day execution.

Overcoming Obstacles and Finding Your Path

Early in his career, Dave faced the challenge of proving his value. "I thought putting my head down and doing my work would lead to promotions," he admits. Over time, he learned the importance of actively showcasing contributions. His advice to young professionals? Keep a running list of accomplishments. "Every time you make an impact, jot it down – when it’s time for a promotion or interview, you’ll have a clear record of your value." Dave also emphasizes the importance of constant self-evaluation: "Are you still adding value? Are you on the right path?" He encourages professionals to reassess their careers annually and adapt to challenges, whether office politics or industry changes. The pressure of making real-time decisions in the NFL, from coordinating with broadcast networks to handling game-day crises, has shaped his leadership. "You have to maintain composure, communicate clearly, and rally a team around you."

Of all his roles, Dave finds his current work with the Commanders especially fulfilling. "The last ten months have been exhilarating. I’ve tried to get better every day, and through that process, I hope I’ve made the Commanders better." He takes pride in the team’s preparation and execution, especially in key game situations. Before joining the Commanders, Dave’s work shaping NFL policies, such as rule changes focused on entertainment and player safety, was highly rewarding. "Being part of the team that helped evolve the game was incredible," he says. His involvement in collective bargaining negotiations also left a lasting impact, shaping the game he loves.

Work Hard, Stay Curious, and Be Yourself

For those looking to break into sports, Dave’s advice is simple: outwork everyone and never stop learning. "Work harder than anybody and have an insatiable desire to learn," he says. Listening to others and staying curious is key to success in the industry. While this may sound straightforward, it’s what sets the truly successful apart. Dave also emphasizes authenticity. "The best fits for us were people who, when they interviewed, were themselves," he explains. Those who thrive naturally integrate into the team, showing up as their true selves and embracing the culture.

The Gardi Name: A Legacy of Football

For Dave, football is more than a profession – it’s a legacy. "My dad's legacy and carrying on the Gardi name in football are a big deal, and I take great pride in that," he says. His greatest fulfillment comes from elevating those around him. "I cherish when I see people succeed around me," he says. "That’s very fulfilling." Dave’s leadership philosophy is rooted in empowerment. Whether at the NFL or with the Commanders, he focuses on bringing out the best in others. "I put a lot of effort into making the people around me better," he says. For him, helping others rise while strengthening the team as a whole is the most rewarding part of his job.

Subscribe to Premium to read the rest.