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The National Football League, or NFL, is one of the most popular and profitable sports leagues in the world. With 32 teams located across the United States, the NFL draws millions of fans to its games, broadcasts, and merchandise every year. History and Organization The NFL was founded in 1920 as the American Professional Football Association, and was renamed the National Football League in 1922. Over the years, the league has grown in size and popularity, expanding from its original 10 teams to the current 32 teams. The league is divided into two conferences, the American Football Conference (AFC) and the National Football Conference (NFC), each of which has 16 teams. The NFL season runs from September through February, with each team playing 17 regular season games over a 18-week period. The top teams from each conference then compete in a playoff tournament, culminating in the Super Bowl, which is typically held in early February. Teams and Players Each NFL team has a roster of up to 53 players, including quarterbacks, running backs, receivers, linemen, linebackers, and defensive backs. Some of the most famous players in NFL history include quarterbacks Tom Brady, Joe Montana, and Peyton Manning, running backs Jim Brown, Barry Sanders, and Walter Payton, and wide receivers Jerry Rice, Randy Moss, and Terrell Owens. Off the field, NFL players are often in the public eye, with endorsements, sponsorships, and social media presence. However, the league has also faced criticism for issues such as player safety, concussion management, and protests during the national anthem. Popularity and Revenue Despite these controversies, the NFL remains immensely popular, with millions of fans tuning in to watch games each week. The league generates billions of dollars in revenue each year, with sources including broadcasting rights, merchandise sales, and ticket sales. In 2020, the NFL reported a revenue of $15.26 billion, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion The NFL is a major force in American sports, with a long history and a massive following. While the league has faced its share of challenges over the years, it continues to be a beloved institution for millions of fans, and a major source of revenue for the teams and players who participate.