PFWA names NFL communications chief Brian McCarthy 2026 Horrigan Award winner

Brian McCarthy, the National Football League’s vice president of communications and chief spokesperson, was named the 2026 Horrigan Award winner by the Professional Football Writers of America. The annual honor recognizes a league or club official who best helps pro football writers do their jobs with professionalism and accessibility. McCarthy’s selection reflects his long service to the league and consistent availability to reporters across the NFL. PFWA members voted on the 2026 award.

He is the 54th recipient of the award and the seventh member of the league’s communications department to be recognized. Previous NFL office honorees include Joe Browne (1985), Leslie Hammond (1995), Greg Aiello (1999), Steve Alic (2007), Michael Signora (2013 and 2022) and Randall Liu (2018).

McCarthy joined the NFL in 1994 and was elevated to chief spokesperson in 2022. In that role, he coordinates national and local media inquiries on subjects ranging from league policies and stadium developments to personal conduct issues. He also helps lead communications around marquee dates on the league calendar, including the NFL Scouting Combine, the NFL Draft and the annual schedule release.

PFWA cites access and consistency

PFWA’s recognition underscores the value voters place on steady engagement, clarity and responsiveness from league officials in a 24/7 news environment. McCarthy has been a central media contact through policy updates, event planning and off-field matters that require precise, timely guidance.

Role across league events

His office often sets logistics and information flow for heavily covered events and coordinates communication protocols during sensitive situations. The group’s work helps ensure reporters receive accurate, consistent briefings as decisions are made and policies are implemented.

Horrigan Award background and legacy

The award is named for Jack Horrigan, who worked as a sportswriter before moving into public relations, serving the American Football League from 1963 to 1966 and then the Buffalo Bills as vice president of public relations from 1966 to 1973. The honor highlights officials whose approach helps ensure fair access and accurate reporting for those who cover professional football.

Connection to the Pro Football Hall of Fame

Horrigan’s legacy in football media also extends through Joe Horrigan, a longtime leader at the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Now a senior advisor, Joe Horrigan has spent nearly five decades with the Hall, including service as executive director (2017–19), executive vice president overseeing museums, the selection process and communications (2014–17), and vice president of communications and exhibits (1996–2014).

This year’s ballot also included San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch and NFL executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent as nominees. McCarthy’s selection affirms the premium voters place on clear, reliable communication from league officials.

With major league events ahead, McCarthy’s team will remain central to how fans and media understand the NFL’s decisions and calendar as the 2026 season approaches.