Dave Ziegler is an American football executive known for his roles across various teams in the NFL. Born on September 7, 1977, in Tallmadge, Ohio, Ziegler initially made his mark in the football world as a college player at John Carroll University, where he was a standout wide receiver, kick returner, and punt returner, earning three-time First Team All-Ohio Athletic Conference honors. His collegiate career was highlighted by setting school records in punt and kick return statistics.
After graduating in 2000, Ziegler took a non-traditional path before entering the NFL’s executive landscape. He worked as a teacher in Ohio and Arizona, and later returned to John Carroll University as a graduate assistant coach. His journey then took him to Iona College as a wide receivers and special teams coach, where he supplemented his income by working as an extra in TV shows. Eventually, Ziegler moved into high school football, serving as a guidance counselor and assistant football coach at Chaparral High School in Arizona.
Ziegler’s entry into the NFL came when he was hired by the Denver Broncos in 2010 as a player personnel assistant, progressing to roles in scouting by 2012. His significant career advancement happened when he joined the New England Patriots in 2013 as the assistant director of pro scouting, where he spent nine seasons, contributing to three Super Bowl championships in various personnel roles, eventually rising to the position of director of player personnel.
In early 2022, Ziegler was appointed as the general manager of the Las Vegas Raiders. His tenure with the Raiders, however, was short-lived. After two seasons marked by a 6-11 record in 2022 and a 3-5 start in 2023, he was fired alongside head coach Josh McDaniels. During his time with the Raiders, Ziegler made several notable decisions, including the trade for Davante Adams and draft picks like Michael Mayer, Tre Tucker, and Aidan O’Connell, though not all his moves were successful, such as the signing of Chandler Jones.
After his stint with the Raiders, Ziegler joined the New Orleans Saints in an advisory role for the 2024 NFL draft before being officially hired as a personnel advisor in July 2024. His experience and connections from his time with the Patriots, Raiders, and now with the Saints showcase his deep involvement in NFL team-building strategies.
Ziegler’s career trajectory from a college football player and high school coach to a key NFL executive highlights his adaptability, scouting acumen, and the network he’s built within the league. His story also underscores the diverse paths individuals can take to reach high levels in professional sports management.