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Dom DiSandro
Dom DiSandro
Dom DiSandro
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Domenico DiSandro (born 1978 or 1979),[1] nicknamed "Big Dom", is an Italian-American football employee who is the consigliere for the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League (NFL).

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

DiSandro is a second-generation Italian American with roots in Molise[2] and was born in South Philadelphia in 1978 or 1979.[1] He attended George Washington High School in Northeast Philadelphia and played football as an offensive lineman.[1] He earned an athletic scholarship to play for the Penn State Nittany Lions but did not appear in any games, being dismissed from the team for unspecified reasons.[1] He received a degree in sports management from Penn State.[1]

Career

[edit]

DiSandro received a job recruiting from the Big East Conference for the Philadelphia Eagles in 1997 after meeting their general manager.[1] According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, he "started assisting with small jobs and organically became the players' liaison, while [Butch] Buchanico, [the team's then-director of security], handled [coach Andy] Reid and high-level projects."[1] DiSandro officially was hired by the Eagles in 1999 and worked in these roles until he was named the chief security officer one year after Buchanico retired in 2011.[1] He also became the team's senior advisor to the general manager; according to the Eagles' website, in these roles he "oversees all safety and security matters for players, coaches, and executives," and "directs security at the team's training complex, is responsible for security measures related to team travel and logistics and provides education on the NFL's personal conduct policy."[3] He has assisted the Eagles front office, including general manager Howie Roseman, with investigative work in scouting potential additions to the team.[1]

Although considered a "mystery man" – DiSandro has never spoken publicly – he has become popular among players and team fans.[1][4] He has been described as a "central figure" and players have called him "family"; Jason Kelce gave him the nickname of "Papa Bear".[1] DiSandro is known for being well-connected around the city of Philadelphia and has helped players navigate legal issues ranging from minor infractions such as parking tickets to issues involving arrests and criminal charges.[1] The Inquirer described him as "the 'Ray Donovan' fixer, 'I got a guy' of the Eagles. Most of the requests are benign and tedious."[1] DiSandro also works with players on personal matters such as mental health struggles, expediting the acquisition of passports, wedding planning and provides private security when Eagles players attend Philadelphia Phillies or Philadelphia 76ers games.[1][5]

DiSandro released merchandise during the 2023 NFL season to support the Eagles Autism Foundation.[6]

In a game during Week 13 of the 2023 season against the San Francisco 49ers, he was involved in a scuffle with 49ers player Dre Greenlaw that resulted in both being ejected from the game; DiSandro received a standing ovation from fans.[7][8] Walt Anderson, the NFL senior vice president of officiating, stated that DiSandro's disqualification from the game was warranted as he "was contributing to that escalation."[9] Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni apologized to 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan for the incident after the game.[9] However, Sirianni defended DiSandro, saying, "He's going to always try to defuse situations... That's what he does. That's his job."[10] Although he and Greenlaw exchanged apologies through intermediaries afterwards, the NFL decided to ban DiSandro from the sidelines for the subsequent game against the Dallas Cowboys, and then for the rest of the regular season.[11][12] He also received a $100,000 fine; the team's appeal of the sanctions was denied.[13]

On June 9, 2024, the Eagles added the title of Director of Gameday Coaching Operations to DiSandro's role.[14] During the 2025 season, he faced a $75,000 fine for using his phone inside the bench area during a preseason game against the Jets on August 22nd.[15]

He has been a part of two Super Bowl winning teams for the Eagles in the 2017 and 2024 seasons.[16][17]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Dom DiSandro

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Domenico "Dom" DiSandro (born c. 1979), commonly known as "Big Dom," is an executive serving as the chief security officer, senior advisor to the general manager, and director of gameday coaching operations for the of the (). In these roles, he oversees safety and security for the team's players, coaches, and executives, manages security at the Eagles' training complex, handles logistics for team travel, and provides education on the 's personal conduct policy. DiSandro has been with the Eagles since 1999, entering his 27th season with the organization in 2025, and is widely regarded as a trusted to players and staff, often described as the team's "Papa Bear" for his protective and supportive nature. A first-generation Italian American born in , DiSandro grew up in a family that relocated to during his childhood. He attended High School in , where he played football, before earning a degree in sports management from Penn State University; although he initially received a to play for the Nittany Lions, he was later removed from the team for unspecified reasons. DiSandro's early affinity for the Eagles stemmed from his local roots, and he began his professional career with the organization in 1997 as an entry-level scout covering the , transitioning to full-time and player liaison duties in 1999. He was promoted to chief of in 2011 following the retirement of his predecessor, Butch Buchanico. Throughout his tenure, DiSandro has played a pivotal role in managing off-field issues and supporting players during personal challenges, such as assisting guard Evan Mathis in attending his daughter's birth in 2014 and helping tackle Lane Johnson relocate from Oklahoma in 2022. His visibility on the sidelines has led to several high-profile incidents, including his ejection from a December 2023 game against the San Francisco 49ers after a physical altercation with linebacker Dre Greenlaw, which resulted in Greenlaw being fined $10,927 by the NFL for unnecessary roughness, DiSandro being fined $100,000 by the Eagles, and barred from the sideline for the remainder of the regular season by the NFL. More recently, in September 2025, DiSandro was fined $75,000 by the NFL for using a cell phone in the bench area during a preseason game against the New York Jets, a violation of league rules. In November 2025, he facilitated a meeting between wide receiver A.J. Brown and team owner Jeffrey Lurie to address internal tensions. Despite such events, he remains a beloved figure, exemplified by his October 2025 visit to injured New York Giants rookie running back Cam Skattebo in a Philadelphia hospital, where he delivered pizza and cheesesteaks as a gesture of support. DiSandro is also actively involved in philanthropy through the Eagles Autism Foundation, with merchandise like the "Big Dom Hoodie" benefiting the cause.

Early life and education

Childhood and upbringing

Dom DiSandro was born in around 1979 to first-generation Italian American parents. His family embodied the classic immigrant story, with his parents having emigrated from and raising him in a household where Italian was the first language spoken. During his youth, DiSandro's family relocated from South Philadelphia to the Northeast section of the city, where he continued to be shaped by his heritage.

High school and college experiences

DiSandro attended George Washington High School in Northeast Philadelphia, where he emerged as a standout athlete in football and strength training. As an offensive lineman, he played under the guidance of legendary coach Ron Cohen, who led the team's program for over three decades and amassed the most wins in Philadelphia Public League history. DiSandro's performance on the field was solid, but his exceptional prowess in weightlifting during high school particularly caught the attention of college recruiters, ultimately securing him an athletic scholarship to Penn State University. Upon arriving at Penn State, DiSandro joined the Nittany Lions football team but was removed prior to playing in any games, for reasons that have not been publicly specified. This setback profoundly shaped his perspective, fostering a deep empathy for athletes facing similar challenges and steering him toward a career in sports management rather than active play. Despite the interruption in his athletic pursuits, DiSandro remained at the university and completed a degree in sports management, which laid the foundational knowledge for his future professional endeavors in football operations.

Career

Entry into professional football operations

After earning his degree in sports management from Penn State University, DiSandro began his professional career in football operations in 1997, securing an entry-level recruiting position covering the through a connection with Tom Modrak, who joined the in 1998. DiSandro was officially hired by the Eagles in 1999 as an assistant to Butch Buchanico. In this early position, he handled small administrative tasks and evolved into the team's players' liaison, overseeing basic operational needs and off-field support for athletes.

Roles with the Philadelphia Eagles

DiSandro initially joined the in 1999 as an assistant to the chief security officer. Following the 2011 retirement of his predecessor, Butch Buchanico, DiSandro was promoted to . In 2014, he advanced further to of team security, reflecting his growing leadership within the organization's operations. As of 2025, DiSandro serves as senior advisor to the general manager, , and director of gameday coaching operations, marking over 26 years of continuous service with the Eagles. His role has evolved to encompass leadership in gameday coaching operations, ensuring seamless coordination during matches. Additionally, he contributes to draft preparation and by conducting background evaluations on prospects, helping identify potential off-field risks to inform roster decisions.

Key responsibilities and contributions

As for the , Dom DiSandro oversees all safety and security measures for players, coaches, and executives, ensuring comprehensive protection across team facilities and operations. He directs security at the team's training complex in and coordinates protective measures for team travel and logistics, including away games and road trips. Additionally, DiSandro serves as a key liaison with local and enforcement agencies, maintaining strong relationships with authorities to address potential threats and facilitate swift responses to security incidents. DiSandro plays a vital role in player development by educating team members on the NFL's personal conduct policy, helping them navigate league rules to avoid violations. He also assists in resolving off-field issues, such as legal matters and personal challenges, drawing on his investigative expertise to support players in maintaining eligibility and focus. Beyond policy guidance, DiSandro provides psychological support and boosts team morale, often acting as a trusted confidant or informal counselor for players dealing with stress, injuries, or personal difficulties. In roster management, DiSandro contributes significantly to player integration and efforts, particularly by evaluating prospects' off-field character during draft preparation. General Manager has described him as the best in the at gathering information on potential red flags and assessing character fit, making DiSandro a "secret weapon" in identifying suitable additions to the team. His insights help inform roster decisions, ensuring selections align with the organization's values and long-term success.

Notable incidents and impact

2023 sideline ejection

During the ' Week 13 matchup against the on December 3, 2023, at , chief security officer Dom DiSandro became involved in a sideline altercation with 49ers linebacker . The incident occurred late in the second quarter after Greenlaw tackled Eagles out of bounds near the Eagles' bench; Greenlaw then approached the sideline and shoved DiSandro, prompting DiSandro to grab Greenlaw's jersey in response, leading to a brief scuffle. Officials immediately intervened, ejecting Greenlaw for unnecessary roughness and DiSandro from the game, marking a rare disciplinary action against a longtime team staffer. As DiSandro exited to the locker room, Eagles fans in attendance gave him a , highlighting his popularity within the fanbase. In the aftermath, the NFL launched an investigation into the confrontation, with DiSandro meeting personally with Commissioner as part of the review process. On December 9, 2023, the league announced a preliminary ban barring DiSandro from the sideline for the Eagles' upcoming game against the on December 10, 2023. Following further review, on December 16, 2023, the league announced its full decision, fining the Eagles $100,000 for failing to prevent the sideline incident and barring DiSandro from the team's sideline for the remainder of the 2023 regular season. DiSandro was permitted to travel with the team and fulfill other security duties but was prohibited from bench access during games. No additional personal fines or suspensions were imposed on DiSandro. The ban applied only to the regular season, allowing DiSandro to return to the sideline for the Eagles' playoff games, where he resumed his duties starting with the January 15, 2024, divisional round victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The episode drew widespread media attention but was resolved without further league action, underscoring the NFL's emphasis on maintaining order on the sidelines while recognizing DiSandro's established role in team operations.

2025 cell phone fine

In September 2025, during a preseason game against the New York Jets, DiSandro was fined $75,000 by the NFL for using a cell phone in the bench area, violating league rules prohibiting electronic devices in coaching and bench areas except for approved medical or coaching purposes. The fine was upheld after the Eagles' appeal was denied on September 23, 2025. This incident marked another high-profile disciplinary action involving DiSandro's sideline presence.

2026 sideline catch

During the Philadelphia Eagles' Wild Card playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers on January 11, 2026, at Levi's Stadium, DiSandro made a notable one-handed catch of a pass from quarterback Jalen Hurts on the sideline during the third quarter, as Hurts attempted to throw the ball out of bounds. The catch prevented the ball from hitting the ground and sparked viral reactions on social media, including memes comparing it to wide receiver A.J. Brown's zero catches at that point in the game. Tom Brady, the FOX color analyst, commented positively on the catch, expressing that he was impressed. The incident highlighted DiSandro's athleticism and further endeared him to fans, with positive reactions on social media. The Eagles lost the game 23-19.

Support for players and team operations

DiSandro has played a pivotal role in supporting individual players during personal crises, often going beyond standard security duties to provide emotional and logistical assistance. In November 2014, when offensive guard missed the team's flight to Green Bay for a game against the Packers due to the birth of his daughter, DiSandro waited outside Mathis's home in an SUV while his wife was in labor, then accompanied him on a commercial flight to rejoin the team, delaying the charter by approximately an hour. Mathis later credited DiSandro, stating, "The baby comes out and I catch the baby… Dom’s outside and he gets me over there and we go to Green Bay." This act exemplified DiSandro's commitment to prioritizing players' family needs amid professional demands. His support extended to mental health challenges, as seen in his involvement with offensive tackle . In October 2021, during Johnson's severe anxiety episode exacerbated by antidepressant withdrawal, pain from an injury, and personal issues including a , DiSandro flew to —where Johnson had retreated—to personally escort him back to and reassure him that he was not alone in his struggles. Johnson, who missed the Eagles' game against the on October 3, 2021, as a result, described DiSandro as his primary confidant: "Really any bind that I’ve ever been in, [Dom’s] the first guy to be there. I vent everything to him." This intervention helped Johnson return to the team and resume his career, highlighting DiSandro's role in for players' well-being. In October 2025, DiSandro extended his supportive role beyond the Eagles by visiting injured rookie Cam Skattebo in a following surgery for a dislocated ankle sustained in a game against the Eagles. DiSandro delivered pizza and cheesesteaks, demonstrating inter-team camaraderie and his reputation as a caring figure in the NFL community. Former Eagles head coaches have praised DiSandro's advisory influence on player and . , who coached the team from 2013 to 2015, referred to him as the "head of ," emphasizing his implicit trust in DiSandro's judgment with players: "Let’s just : I didn’t allow Dom to do anything… I trusted him implicitly." Similarly, , head coach from 2016 to 2020, highlighted DiSandro's multifaceted guidance: "He can talk players off of ledges or he can encourage guys, guys. And if he has to bring out the , he can do that, as well." These endorsements underscore DiSandro's function as a trusted mediator who balances and accountability. On a broader scale, DiSandro enhances team morale by addressing off-field concerns that affect players' focus and cohesion, creating a familial atmosphere within the organization. He routinely educates players on practical matters such as and , alongside NFL conduct rules, to prevent legal entanglements. Additionally, DiSandro handles a range of "binds"—from securing tickets and passports to resolving arrests and DMV issues—serving as a buffer that allows players to concentrate on football while fostering loyalty and trust across the roster.

Personal life

Family and background

Dom DiSandro is a first-generation Italian American, born in circa 1979 to parents who embodied the through their hard work and dedication. Growing up in a tight-knit family, DiSandro spoke Italian as his first language, immersing him in the vibrant cultural traditions of the neighborhood's Italian immigrant community. His family's eventual relocation to did not sever DiSandro's enduring ties to South Philadelphia's culture, where he maintains a profound connection to its community values and heritage. This upbringing profoundly shaped his personal ethos, instilling a strong , unwavering loyalty, and passion rooted in Italian American principles of family and perseverance. DiSandro is married and a father to at least one son, though he keeps details of his private to respect their privacy.

Public persona and interests

Dom DiSandro is widely known among players and staff by the nickname "Big Dom," a moniker that reflects his imposing physical presence and approachable demeanor. He has also been affectionately called "Papa Bear" by center , highlighting his protective and nurturing role within the organization, often described as having a heart of gold. DiSandro's personal style embodies a distinctive flair, frequently sporting tracksuits—sometimes referred to as his "South Philly tuxedo"—along with caps and pinky rings, while maintaining a clean-cut appearance that includes a signature pleasant scent. He further personalizes his workspace by bringing in South Philly desserts and sandwiches, sharing these local treats with colleagues and underscoring his deep ties to the neighborhood's culinary culture. Beyond his style, DiSandro cultivates lifelong bonds with players, serving as a trusted who listens without judgment and offers advice, much like a neutral "" in team dynamics. These relationships have profoundly shaped him personally, as former Doug Pederson noted: "He’ll do anything for them and their families... [it's] making him a better person through relationships." Similarly, ex-coach remarked, "I’m a lot better person because Dom’s in my life," illustrating how DiSandro's empathetic connections foster mutual growth.

References

  1. https://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/team/front-office/dom-disandro
  2. https://www.inquirer.com/eagles/eagles-dom-disandro-security-guard-philadelphia-nfl-doug-pederson-20230112.html
  3. https://nypost.com/sports/who-is-big-dom-meet-eagles-chief-security-officer-dom-disandro/
  4. https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/eagles-security-chief-dom-disandro-fined-100k-barred-from-sideline-for-rest-of-regular-season-per-report/
  5. https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2025/09/21/eagles-chief-security-officer-dom-disandro-fined-75k/86281016007/
  6. https://nypost.com/2025/11/16/sports/what-aj-brown-told-eagles-owner-during-unusual-on-field-meeting/
  7. https://www.foxnews.com/sports/eagles-dom-disandro-visits-injured-giants-cam-skattebo-hospital-pizza-cheesesteaks
  8. https://www.si.com/nfl/philadelphia-famiglia-italian-american-coaches
  9. https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-who-dom-disandro-eagles-head-security-goes-viral-getting-scuffle-vs-49ers
  10. https://billypenn.com/2023/12/05/eagles-dom-disandro-ejected/
  11. https://www.si.com/nfl/eagles/onsi/news/big-dom-headlines-host-of-changes-in-eagles-front-office-01hzsvc525h4
  12. https://975thefanatic.com/2025/04/22/big-dom-the-eagles-secret-weapon-in-draft-prep/
  13. https://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/scouting-personnel-changes-announced-13093065
  14. https://sports.yahoo.com/article/inside-big-doms-crucial-role-040231897.html
  15. https://www.si.com/nfl/howie-roseman-credits-eagles-team-security-big-dom-unique-nfl-draft-skill
  16. https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/philadelphia-eagles/eagles-news-howie-roseman-reveals-what-big-dom-best-at-in-nfl
  17. https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/eagles-howie-roseman-explains-what-big-dom-does-better-than-anyone-in-nfl-during-draft-process/
  18. https://www.cbsnews.com/philadelphia/news/who-is-dom-disandro-big-dom-eagles-dre-greenlaw/
  19. https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/who-is-dom-disandro-a-closer-look-at-the-man-who-was-ejected-with-dre-greenlaw-in-eagles-49ers/
  20. https://www.nfl.com/news/eagles-head-of-security-dom-disandro-banned-from-sideline-for-remainder-of-2023-
  21. https://kslsports.com/nfl/eagles-security-guard-banned-from-sideline-for-sunday-night-football-vs-cowboys/508591
  22. https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/playoffs/2026/01/11/eagles-49ers-live-updates-score-nfl-playoffs-wild-card/88125731007/
  23. https://www.tiktok.com/@nflonfox/video/7594252992967216397
  24. https://x.com/Underdog/status/2010515581603037554
  25. https://www.courierpostonline.com/story/sports/nfl/eagles/2026/01/11/big-dom-makes-a-catch-during-eagles-nfl-wild-card-game/88134798007/
  26. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5229907/2024/02/01/lane-johnson-eagles-gratitude-walter-payton-man-of-the-year/
  27. https://www.lockhaven.com/sports/local-sports/2025/03/quotes-notes-and-anecdotes-the-eagles-italian-american-heritage-on-display/
  28. https://www.essentiallysports.com/nfl-active-news-howie-roseman-hails-controversial-philadelphia-eagles-head-of-security-big-dom-as-the-protector-of-the-team/
  29. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/national-italian-american-foundation_the-eagles-dom-disandro-is-a-proud-italian-activity-7295108156660068356-_-dH
  30. https://www.fox29.com/news/who-is-dom-disandro-eagles-head-of-security-becomes-philly-hero-after-sideline-skirmish-with-49ers
  31. https://www.si.com/nfl/nick-sirianni-describes-what-makes-team-security-man-big-dom-so-important-to-eagles
  32. https://www.crossingbroad.com/news/eagles/big-dom-disandro-put-a-beatdown-on-a-puma-tracksuit/
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