Meaning: Wellington Mara, the author of this quote, was a prominent figure in the world of American football. He was the co-owner of the New York Giants, a team that has been a part of the National Football League (NFL) since its inception in 1925. The quote reflects Mara's perspective on the involvement of his father, Timothy J. Mara, also known as "Pop," in the business of professional football.

Timothy J. Mara was a successful businessman who, together with his brother Jack, purchased the New York Giants for $500 in 1925. This marked the beginning of the Mara family's enduring legacy in the NFL. Despite being a co-owner of an NFL team, Timothy J. Mara apparently had little interest or knowledge about the professional football game itself.

The quote can be interpreted in a few ways. On one hand, it could be seen as a humorous and lighthearted observation by Wellington Mara about his father's lack of interest in the sport. It could also be viewed as a testament to the fact that success in the business of football doesn't necessarily require an in-depth understanding of the game. Timothy J. Mara's success in the business of professional football despite his purported lack of knowledge about the sport itself is a testament to the business acumen and vision of the Mara family.

Furthermore, the quote may also highlight the distinction between the business side of professional football and the game itself. While Timothy J. Mara may not have been well-versed in the intricacies of the sport, his contributions to the business and organizational aspects of the New York Giants were undoubtedly significant. This serves as a reminder that success in the world of professional sports requires a combination of business savvy, strategic decision-making, and a deep understanding of the industry as a whole.

In the context of the broader history of the NFL, the quote also sheds light on the evolution of the league as a business. In its early years, the NFL was primarily a collection of regional teams with a strong focus on the game itself. However, as the league expanded and professionalized, the business side of football became increasingly important. Owners like Timothy J. Mara played a pivotal role in shaping the NFL into the multibillion-dollar industry it is today, regardless of their personal interest or knowledge of the sport.

It's worth noting that the Mara family's influence on the NFL extends beyond their ownership of the Giants. Wellington Mara, along with his brother Jack, was instrumental in shaping the direction of the league through their involvement in various committees and their commitment to the principles of integrity and sportsmanship. As such, the quote by Wellington Mara also serves as a reflection of the Mara family's enduring impact on the NFL and professional football as a whole.

In conclusion, the quote "Pop knew absolutely nothing about pro football" by Wellington Mara offers a thought-provoking insight into the intersection of business and sport in the context of the NFL. It speaks to the diverse skills and perspectives required for success in the professional sports industry and reflects the unique dynamics of the Mara family's influence on the league.