The National Football League (NFL) has renewed its partnership with Microsoft, continuing to feature Surface tablets prominently on the sidelines during games. This updated collaboration introduces advanced artificial intelligence elements to enhance their functionality.
Though legendary quarterback Tom Brady is no longer risking damage to these devices, they remain valuable tools for coaches and players. Microsoft is promoting a new feature based on GitHub Copilot that assists in strategizing by filtering plays based on specific game situations. Additionally, a dashboard powered by Microsoft 365 Copilot aids analysts in quickly processing game data.
In conjunction with the multiyear extension of their contract, the NFL and Microsoft revealed that each team’s Sideline Viewing System now connects to over 2,500 Surface Copilot Plus PCs, which feature prominent “Copilot” branding on the carrying straps.
The true impact of AI on NFL operations may become clear when coaches are asked to discuss their AI prompts following a playoff game, provided that network connectivity remains stable.
The two organizations assert that upcoming AI initiatives will include performance analysis of draft prospects outside the NFL Combine, providing clubs with data-driven insights for both business and football operations, as well as enhancing productivity in various organizational functions such as finance and human resources.
