Powering a better game
October 20, 2022
The National Football League (NFL) has long stood at the intersection of tradition and innovation, delivering one of the world’s most exhilarating sports experiences. In its relentless pursuit of excellence, the NFL partnered with Microsoft in 2013 to infuse cutting-edge technology into every facet of the game.
Microsoft has become integral to the NFL’s evolution, with its solutions enabling the league to operate more efficiently, adapt to new challenges, and elevate performance to unprecedented levels. Central to this partnership is the Copilot Sideline Viewing System (SVS), a tool that has revolutionized how coaches and players analyze and respond to in-game situations. Starting in 2025, devices on the sidelines and in the coaches’ booth were upgraded to Surface Copilot+PCs along with a new AI-powered filtering feature incorporated into the app, letting users quickly find key moments in real-time.
Beyond the sidelines, Microsoft Teams, Azure, and Power Virtual Agents are empowering NFL teams to collaborate seamlessly, manage complex operations, and forge meaningful connections with fans. Additionally, Microsoft’s technology supports critical league activities like the NFL Combine, where the NFL evaluates new talent. Tools like the Combine App streamline the collection and analysis of player data, enabling teams to make better-informed decisions during the recruiting process. By integrating technology into various aspects of the sport, Microsoft and the NFL are redefining innovation in professional football while improving performance and efficiency on and off the field.
Elite NFL IQ meets Copilot-powered analysis
When NFL superstars light up the scoreboard, there’s always a defense plotting to shut down their glory. “The Blueprint” from Bleacher Report dives deep into the minds of defensive legends as they analyze how to counter today’s most explosive offensive threats. Powered by Microsoft Copilot, each episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at the strategies, stats, and swagger that define the game.
Join legendary players as they share their personal blueprints—reviewing game footage and revealing the tactics behind iconic plays.
Watch The Blueprint from Bleacher Report
Hall of Famer Ed Reed takes center stage in the premiere, breaking down game film and revealing the defensive strategies used to counter Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen’s signature plays.
In ep 2, Ed Reed analyzes Patrick Mahomes’ game, studying his pre-snap reads, spotlighting defensive lapses, and detailing the defensive strategies he’d use to contain the Chiefs’ high-powered offense.
In ep 3, eight-time All-Pro safety Ed Reed is back, dissecting Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley’s game-changing plays for the Eagles, pinpointing how he’d shut down the infamous tush push.
In ep 4, Ed Reed unpacks how Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson freezes defenders with eye discipline, misdirection, and elite progression reads, turning mistakes into game-changing plays that make Lamar nearly impossible to stop.
In ep 5, Ed Reed shows how Colts running back Jonathan Taylor’s vision and explosiveness amplify his strong offensive line play—and that disciplined, late‑disguised defense is key to slowing him down.
In ep 6, Ed Reed breaks down Drake Maye’s accuracy and mobility, showing why rushing four with disciplined lanes and late coverage disguise is the blueprint to containing the Patriots quarterback.
In ep 7, Ed Reed dives into why Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb is every defender’s nightmare—speed, power, and routes that snap like lightning. He’s unpredictable and that’s his edge.
In ep 8, Ed Reed examines Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield’s arm strength and accuracy, and why pressure is key to slowing him down. See why Mayfield makes defenses pay when they slip.
In ep 9, Ed Reed reveals how 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey is the ultimate matchup challenge for defenses. McCaffrey’s versatility forces linebackers to play chess while he’s playing speed checkers.
Making an impact on and off the field
Star players are proving that innovation is transforming the game—and the communities they care about. They’re using digital tools to analyze plays aand refine their strategies while helping give youth better opportunities. By tapping into advanced tech, they’re sharpening their competitive edge and staying connected with fans.
More stories
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Kayvon Thibodeaux
Kayvon uses SVS to refine his technique and timing—keeping his edge as a standout linebacker for the Giants.
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Rome Odunze
Rome relies on Surface for deep film study and coverage breakdowns—turning prep into playmaking as a rising star for the Bears.
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Sauce Gardner & Garrett Wilson
Jets cornerback Sauce leverages Teams for virtual huddles and strategy syncs while Jets wide receiver Garrett uses GSIS data on the sideline—shaping insights into decisive plays.
A shared desire for victory
The NFL’s multi-year partnership with Microsoft is redefining the game at every level. On the sidelines, coaches and players tap into real-time insights to adjust tactics on the fly, turning split-second decisions into game-changing moments. Officials keep the action moving with streamlined instant replays, minimizing interruptions and mesmerizing fans. And beyond the field, elevated performances are giving fans more to cheer about.
The addition of Game Statistics & Information System (GSIS) to the SVS gives coaches and players access to performance metrics within moments.
The Surface Sideline Viewing System (SVS) lets coaches and players adjust tactics in the moment, improving performance.
Microsoft Surface Instant Replay (MSIR) enables instant replay for officials, boosting the overall pace of play.
At the NFL Combine, clubs use Microsoft Copilot to compare top prospects instantly and make faster decisions leading up to the NFL Draft.
Rewriting the playbook with AI
The NFL is taking football to the next level with Microsoft AI. Coaches and players are analyzing plays, adjusting strategies, and making split-second calls with more precision, and the impact is reaching beyond the field. From scouting future stars with Azure AI Foundry, to clubs using Copilot for fan engagement, AI is transforming every corner of the league. Now, with Copilot-powered dashboards and game summaries on SVS systems, teams are unlocking new levels of performance, giving fans a deeper, more connected experience. This exciting era of innovation is rewriting the playbook and elevating gameday for everyone who loves football.
Kayvon Thibodeaux is making an impact on and off the field
Kayvon Thibodeaux is in his third season in the NFL. He was drafted fifth overall by the New York Giants in the 2022 NFL Draft, received early accolades including NFC Defensive Player of the Week, and was selected to the PFWA All-Rookie Team. Through his first 25 career games, he recorded 14.5 sacks—the most by any player in their first 25 games with the Giants since sacks became an official statistic in 1982.
Kayvon knows football to be a game of inches, and a game of seconds. Every moment matters. Kayvon leverages the Microsoft Surface Sideline Viewing System between drives to collaborate with his coaches on the sideline and in the coaches’ booth, analyzing offensive and defensive schemes to make in-game adjustments during critical moments. To maximize these moments, Kayvon spends his time during the week on Microsoft Teams, working with his personal pass rushing coach located 2,000 miles away. Together, they refine his technique to ensure Kayvon maintains his edge as one of the most dominant linebackers in the NFL.
Kayvon is also making an impact off the field. He established the JREAM Foundation, which aims to empower youth from economically disadvantaged backgrounds by providing access to premier education and essential life skills. The foundation focuses on enrichment programs and attempts to open doors to alternative career opportunities for students. Kayvon is partnering with Microsoft to donate Surface devices, providing greater access to technology for students.
Football is a game of inches, but also a game of seconds.
Rome Odunze is dedicated to shining in the NFL and in the community
Rome Odunze is in his first season in the NFL, eager to unlock the keys to success at the next level. Drafted ninth overall by the Chicago Bears in the 2024 NFL Draft, Rome brings a wealth of talent and determination to the league. During his standout collegiate career at the University of Washington, he earned 2x First-Team All-Pac-12 honors and was named a consensus All-American in his senior year after leading the NCAA in receiving yards.
In a league as competitive as the NFL, Rome knows that preparation is everything. Rather than getting distracted by the noise around him, he focuses on refining his game. Whether he’s on the road or at home, Rome relies on his Microsoft Surface to break down film, analyze coverages, and fine-tune his mechanics and route-running technique. He takes that same mentality with him to the sidelines on gameday. In between drives, Rome consistently leverages SVS to collaborate with teammates and coaches to learn from previous drives and improve his game in real time.
Rome is also keen to make a difference in his new community. He is partnering with Microsoft to donate 25 Surface devices to a local organization to help bridge the digital divide and support students on their academic journeys.
Sauce Gardner and Garrett Wilson push each other on and off the field
As first-round picks by the New York Jets in the 2022 NFL Draft, wide receiver Garrett Wilson and cornerback Sauce Gardner are setting records and achieving honors. Both won Rookie of the Year in 2022 for their respective sides of the ball. Garrett set franchise rookie records for receptions and receiving yards in a single season, naming him to the PFWA All-Rookie Team. Sauce led the NFL with 20 pass deflections, was selected for the 2023 Pro Bowl Games, and named a First-Team All-Pro, becoming the first rookie cornerback to receive the honor since Ronnie Lott in 1981.
Garrett and Sauce push each other to be better on and off the field, whether they’re competing as teammates or using Microsoft Surface and Microsoft Teams to communicate, extract insights, and create game plans for the upcoming week. Surface Sideline Viewing System/Surface helps them on the field by gaining more insight into their opponent’s plays, enabling them to make adjustments and achieve success during the game.
Microsoft Surface helps them organize their schedules, allowing time to give back to their communities—something they both value. Between games, Garrett prepares for and hosts a weekly radio show that runs through the season, and recently designed uniforms for a local high school. Sauce frequently connects with his family to continue developing his family foundation, which prioritizes education and is partnering with Microsoft to donate Surface devices.
The most prepared person always wins, the most prepared team always wins, and that starts with knowing your opponent and knowing what you’re going up against.
