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Tod Leiweke to become NFL's COO

NFL, NHL, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Lightning

Tod Leiweke has resigned from his position as CEO of the NHL's Tampa Bay Lightning to become the new Chief Operating Officer of the NFL.

The Lightning announced Leiweke's resignation in a release Friday, saying that he was "instrumental in our franchise transformation."

"While I am saddened that a good friend and mentor is leaving the Lightning for the National Football League, I'd like to thank him for all his work in positioning the franchise for continued excellence as we move forward," said Lightning president Steve Griggs, who will replace Leiweke as the team's CEO. "Tod is the best operator is team sports and he led an inspirational five-year brand and business transformation of the organization."

Leiweke, 55, has previous experience as an executive in the NFL. He served as the Seattle Seahawks' CEO from 2003 to '10 before joining the Lightning.

"I am excited to join the NFL and work with Roger Goodell in this unique national position, but I will always feel a part of this great community," Leiweke said in a statement.

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