Report: The PGA TOUR Is Expected to Hire a New CEO. Here's What We Know About Him.

As the first round of the U.S. Open unfolded on Thursday at Oakmont Country Club, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the PGA TOUR had found its new CEO.

Brian Rolapp will reportedly fill the vacancy after holding a variety of positions with the National Football League since 2003. He’s served as the league’s executive vice president, chief media and business officer since 2017, meaning he’s worked closely with Roger Goodell on the business side of things.

Why is that important? Well, the PGA TOUR is preparing for its next round of media deals, which will commence at the start of the 2031 season. Given his connections and experience, Rolapp will be a huge asset.

According to Sports Business Journal, he’ll also work closely with PGA TOUR Enterprises, the circuit’s for-profit branch that launched last year after a $1.5 billion investment from the Strategic Sports Group. Arthur Blank, owner of the Atlanta Falcons and a member of the PGATE board, led the CEO search committee, and according to the SBJ, was heavily involved in the process.

I guess we shouldn’t be surprised that the role went to an NFL employee.

In a memo sent to chief executives and club presidents, Goodell wrote, “Brian played an integral role in shaping the NFL’s media strategy and business operations at a time of unprecedented change in the media environment.”

ESPN’s Seth Wickersham said in a social media post Thursday that some considered Rolapp as the successor to Goodell as NFL Commissioner.

Editor's Note: A previous version of this story stated Rolapp had been announced as CEO, which has only been reported. The PGA TOUR has not yet announced who has been hired.