NFL: Wer bekommt einen Super-Bowl-Ring? Und wer bezahlt ihn?
The Super Bowl represents the pinnacle of the NFL season, culminating in the awarding of the Vince Lombardi Trophy to the winning franchise. Beyond this prestigious trophy, members of the victorious team receive a Super Bowl ring – a symbol of their championship achievement. But who exactly is eligible for one of these coveted rings, and who ultimately bears the cost?
The Recipients of Super Bowl Rings
It’s not solely the winning players who receive a Super Bowl ring. While the official rings are awarded to the 53 players on the active roster during the Super Bowl, the losing team – in this case, the 2026 New England Patriots – also receive rings, though these are for the Conference Championship win and are less elaborate. Players on the practice squad receive a less expensive version of the ring. The decision to award rings to coaching staff, front office personnel, and other franchise employees rests with the team, but is generally standard practice.
The Financials of a Championship
The NFL provides a subsidy to each franchise to help cover the cost of the rings, contributing $5,000 per ring for up to 150 rings. If a team chooses to create more than 150 rings, or if the rings exceed the $5,000 price point, the franchise is responsible for the additional expenses. Typically, teams order between 300 and 900 rings, resulting in a total cost estimated around $5 million.
A History of Championship Recognition
The concept of a championship ring predates the Super Bowl era. The first Super Bowl in 1967 marked the beginning of the unique tradition of Super Bowl rings in football. The initial rings awarded to the Green Bay Packers were reportedly adorned with a one-carat diamond, and the rings have grown increasingly elaborate and expensive over time.
The rings are typically presented to the team in a ceremony several months after the Super Bowl. Due to their exclusivity and collectible nature, Super Bowl rings are rarely sold publicly.
Notable Ring Counts
Tom Brady holds the record for the most Super Bowl rings, with seven titles – six with the New England Patriots and one with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Bill Belichick, the former Patriots coach, also has six rings, with two additional rings earned as a defensive assistant coach with the New York Giants. Neal Dahlen has also accumulated seven rings, as a General Manager for the Denver Broncos and San Francisco 49ers. Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots, has six rings.
German players have also been recognised with Super Bowl rings. Sebastian Vollmer received two rings as a member of the New England Patriots, alongside Tom Brady and under the leadership of Bill Belichick. Markus Koch, who emigrated to Canada at a young age, won two Super Bowls with Washington in 1988 and 1991.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who decides who on the team gets a Super Bowl ring?
While the 53 players on the Super Bowl roster automatically receive a ring, the decision to award rings to coaches, staff, and other personnel is at the discretion of the franchise, but is generally standard practice.
Does the NFL pay for the entire cost of the Super Bowl rings?
The NFL provides a subsidy of $5,000 per ring, up to a maximum of 150 rings. Any costs exceeding this amount are the responsibility of the franchise.
How long does it take to receive a Super Bowl ring after the game?
The rings are typically presented in a ceremony several months after the Super Bowl, due to the time required for design and production.
Considering the history and significance of these symbols of victory, what does receiving a Super Bowl ring represent to the players and organizations involved?