Matt Birk

Matt Birk is a Super Bowl champion, Harvard-educated author, and leadership speaker whose career in professional football and beyond has established him as a prominent figure in the sports industry. A 15-year veteran of the National Football League, Birk earned the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award. Drafted by the Minnesota Vikings, he later joined the Baltimore Ravens as a key off-season acquisition. Sports Illustrated described Birk as one of the top Ivy League prospects in professional football.

A six-time NFL Pro Bowl selection and two-time All-Pro, Birk was recognized for his leadership on the field and was named among the smartest athletes by Sporting News. His tenure with the Ravens included a Super Bowl victory against the San Francisco 49ers. Birk contributed to nine playoff appearances and concluded his career with a Super Bowl win. He graduated from Harvard University with a degree in economics and was honored for his excellence both on and off the field.

Birk's commitment to community service is reflected in his establishment of the HIKE Foundation (Hope, Inspiration, Knowledge, Education), which provides programs and resources for at-risk children transitioning through various educational stages. The foundation's initiatives have reached thousands of children in the Baltimore area. His Minnesota Vikings teammates recognized his work with the Ed Block Courage Award. Birk also played a role in founding Unity Catholic High School in Burnsville, Minnesota.

After retiring from professional football, Birk took on the role of NFL Director of Football Development, collaborating with coaches and league personnel to advance the game and oversee game day operations. He contributed to the evolution of the Scouting Combine, Regional Combines, and annual all-star games for aspiring NFL players, including the Senior Bowl and East-West Shrine Game. Birk serves on the Board of Directors for the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Game for Life National Advisory Board, the Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund, and the After the Impact Fund.

As an author and speaker, Birk draws on his football experience to address leadership, personal development, and teamwork. He wrote the book "All-Pro Wisdom: The 7 Choices That Lead to Greatness," which explores his journey from NFL prospect to Super Bowl champion. Birk speaks to organizations nationwide about leadership principles, teamwork dynamics, and achieving potential. As founder and CEO of Matt Birk and Company, he continues to work with individuals and organizations, applying the discipline and character that defined his professional football career.