Rael Enteen is a digital media strategist and content creator with a career spanning over a decade in sports media. Known for his innovative approach to content creation and social media strategy, Enteen has held prominent roles with several major sports organizations, including the New York Jets, XFL, and the Washington Commanders. However, his career faced a significant setback in September 2024 due to controversial comments that led to his termination from the Commanders.
Early Life and Education
Enteen’s journey into the world of sports media began in his teenage years at San Francisco’s Lowell High School, where he developed a passion for sports and writing. He honed his skills by joining the school’s award-winning newspaper, The Lowell, eventually becoming the Sports Editor and later the Editor-in-Chief. This early experience laid the foundation for his future career in media.
He continued his education at the University of California, San Diego, where he further developed his journalistic skills, serving as a reporter and later as Editor-in-Chief of the student newspaper. Recognizing the shifting landscape of media, Enteen expanded his expertise beyond print journalism, preparing himself for the evolving digital media environment.
Career Beginnings
After graduating in 2008, Enteen ventured into the startup world with OneSeason, a fantasy sports/stock market concept, where he gained valuable experience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. Although the company eventually folded, the experience provided Enteen with insights into the challenges and opportunities within the startup culture.
He then took on part-time roles with the San Francisco Giants and Comcast SportsNet Bay Area, covering a range of sports including baseball, football, basketball, and hockey. These positions allowed him to learn the intricacies of production, from scripting to field reporting, and to contribute to the digital transformation of sports media.
Advancement in Sports Media
Enteen’s career trajectory took a significant turn when he joined NBC Sports Bay Area as a Digital Content Manager. There, he played a pivotal role in transforming the network’s website into a comprehensive digital platform that offered breaking news, in-depth analysis, and multimedia content. His efforts contributed to the network’s increased online presence and engagement.
Seeking new challenges, Enteen moved to KNBR, a prominent sports radio station in San Francisco, where he served as Managing Editor. Under his leadership, the station’s website experienced a 500% increase in web traffic and a 300% rise in revenue, showcasing his ability to drive digital growth and innovation.
Roles with NFL Teams and the XFL
In 2016, Enteen joined the New York Jets as Director of Digital/Social Media. In this capacity, he oversaw the team’s digital and social media strategies, enhancing fan engagement and content delivery. His work involved collaborating with various departments to ensure a cohesive and effective online presence.
In 2018, Enteen transitioned to the XFL as Senior Director of Social Media and Content. As one of the league’s early employees, he was instrumental in shaping its digital identity and building a robust social media following. Despite the league’s short-lived existence due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Enteen’s contributions were significant in establishing the XFL’s online presence.
Tenure with the Washington Commanders
Enteen joined the Washington Commanders in 2020, initially serving as Senior Director of Content Strategy before being promoted to Vice President of Content in 2022. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing the team’s content creation, including social media, digital platforms, and in-stadium experiences.
His tenure with the Commanders was marked by efforts to revitalize the team’s digital presence and engage with fans through innovative content strategies. However, his career with the team ended abruptly in September 2024 following the emergence of an undercover video in which he made disparaging remarks about players, fans, and league executives.
Controversy and Termination
The video, released by O’Keefe Media Group, showed Enteen making derogatory comments about NFL players, referring to them as “dumb as hell” and “homophobic.” He also criticized fans, calling them “high school-educated alcoholics” and “mouth breathers.” Additionally, Enteen made disparaging remarks about NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, labeling Goodell a “puppet” and accusing Jones of harboring discriminatory views.
The Washington Commanders swiftly suspended Enteen pending an internal investigation, stating that the language used in the video “runs counter to our values at the Commanders organization.” Less than 24 hours later, Enteen was terminated from his position as Vice President of Content .
Legacy and Impact
Enteen’s career serves as a testament to the evolving landscape of sports media and the importance of digital engagement. His innovative approaches to content creation and social media strategy have left a lasting impact on the organizations he served. However, the controversy leading to his termination underscores the significance of maintaining professionalism and respect in all aspects of one’s career.
As of now, Enteen has maintained a low public profile, with his social media accounts set to private and his personal website taken down. His future endeavors remain uncertain, but his past contributions to sports media continue to be recognized within the industry.
Conclusion
Rael Enteen’s journey through the world of sports media highlights both the opportunities and challenges inherent in the industry. From his early days as a student journalist to his leadership roles with major sports organizations, Enteen’s career reflects a commitment to innovation and digital engagement. However, the events leading to his dismissal from the Washington Commanders serve as a reminder of the importance of accountability and professionalism in maintaining a successful career in sports media.