What is the purpose of an "exit interview" for an NFL team?

The purpose of an exit interview for an NFL team primarily revolves around conducting a performance review and discussing future plans for players. Exit interviews typically take place at the end of the season when teams assess individual player performances, gather feedback, and explore their aspirations for the future, such as contract renewals, position changes, or potential career paths. This process allows team management and players to communicate openly about expectations, improvement areas, and how each party envisions the upcoming seasons, facilitating strategic decisions for both the player and the organization moving forward.

While finalizing contracts is an essential part of team operations, it typically occurs in a more formal setting rather than in an exit interview. Announcing player trades is generally a distinct event that is part of the team’s off-season strategy rather than something addressed in exit interviews. Additionally, evaluating coaches’ performance is usually a separate discussion from individual player assessments and is often conducted at the end of the season through different channels. Thus, the exit interview specifically serves the purpose of performance evaluation and future planning for the players themselves.