Raising Cane's Billionaire Open to Buying NFL Team

Todd Graves says he loves the game and the fanfare of the NFL, hinting at potential future ownership.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Raising Cane's founder and billionaire Todd Graves has expressed interest in potentially owning an NFL team in the future. Graves, who is worth around $22 billion, says he loves everything about football - the strategy, the athletes, and the connection with fans. He is close friends with Gayle Benson, the owner of the New Orleans Saints, and joked that if the Bensons ever decided to sell the team, he might have an in on the deal.

Why it matters

The potential for a billionaire fast-food executive to purchase an NFL franchise would be a significant development in the league's ownership landscape. Graves' wealth and passion for the sport could make him an attractive candidate if a team were to become available.

The details

Graves discussed his interest in NFL ownership during an interview at the "New Heights" podcast party hosted by Travis and Jason Kelce during Super Bowl week. He praised the strategic elements of the game, the incredible athletes, and the connection with fans as reasons why he is drawn to the sport. Graves also has a close relationship with Gayle Benson, the owner of the New Orleans Saints, and joked that if the Bensons ever decided to sell the team, he might have an inside track.

  • Graves made these comments during Super Bowl week in 2026.

The players

Todd Graves

The billionaire founder of the Raising Cane's fast-food chain, who is worth an estimated $22 billion and has expressed interest in potentially owning an NFL team in the future.

Gayle Benson

The owner of the New Orleans Saints, who is a close friend of Todd Graves.

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What they’re saying

“For me, I love football -- I love the fanfare of it. I love the fact that coaches and teams have to put together this amazing play calling, amazing teams, the athletes are incredible -- so I love all that.”

— Todd Graves (TMZ)

“It's all about success and working hard and doing great and giving it all to the fans. So maybe, someday, that makes sense for me, right?”

— Todd Graves (TMZ)

What’s next

If the Benson family were to ever decide to sell the New Orleans Saints, Todd Graves has hinted that he may be interested in purchasing the franchise.

The takeaway

Todd Graves' potential interest in NFL ownership highlights the growing influence of billionaire entrepreneurs in professional sports. As the league continues to attract high-net-worth individuals, Graves' passion for the game and his existing relationships within the NFL ecosystem could make him an attractive candidate if a team were to become available.