IMG Academy Hosts NFL Football Academy

The elite sports training school partners with the NFL to launch a new football program.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 7:12am

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented football game, with sharp planes of navy, green, and orange representing the dynamic action on the field.The NFL's new academy at IMG Academy aims to identify and cultivate the next generation of football talent through specialized training and development.Bradenton Today

IMG Academy, a renowned sports training institution in Bradenton, Florida, has announced a new partnership with the National Football League (NFL) to host the NFL Academy. This specialized football program will provide elite-level training and development opportunities for aspiring young players, helping them hone their skills and potentially pave the way for future NFL careers.

Why it matters

The collaboration between IMG Academy and the NFL represents a significant investment in the next generation of football talent. By offering this specialized training program, the organizations aim to identify and cultivate promising players, giving them access to world-class coaching, facilities, and resources to maximize their potential.

The details

The NFL Academy at IMG Academy will feature a comprehensive curriculum focused on football fundamentals, strength and conditioning, and mental preparation. Students will have the opportunity to train alongside experienced NFL coaches and participate in competitive games and scrimmages. The program is designed to provide a well-rounded education, combining athletic development with academic support to ensure the student-athletes' overall success.

  • The NFL Academy at IMG Academy will officially launch in the fall of 2026.
  • The inaugural class of student-athletes is expected to begin training in August 2026.

The players

IMG Academy

A renowned sports training institution located in Bradenton, Florida, known for its elite-level programs and facilities.

National Football League (NFL)

The professional American football league, which has partnered with IMG Academy to launch the NFL Academy.

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What they’re saying

“This partnership with the NFL represents a unique opportunity for young athletes to receive world-class training and exposure to the highest level of football.”

— Ken Masuhr, Director of Football, IMG Academy

“We're excited to work with IMG Academy to provide a pathway for talented young players to develop their skills and potentially earn a spot in the NFL.”

— Troy Vincent, Executive Vice President of Football Operations, NFL

What’s next

The NFL Academy at IMG Academy will begin accepting applications for the inaugural class in early 2026, with the first group of student-athletes expected to start training in August of that year.

The takeaway

The partnership between IMG Academy and the NFL represents a significant investment in the future of American football, providing aspiring players with a unique opportunity to receive world-class training and development in pursuit of their NFL dreams.