Edy Lawson-Jackson and her daughter, Samira Jackson, have made NFL history by becoming the first mother-daughter team certified by the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) as sports agents.
Their achievement is a groundbreaking moment in the male-dominated world of professional football, exemplifying the power of resilience, hard work, and the rising influence of Black women in the sports industry.
Pioneering in a Competitive Field
Edy Lawson-Jackson, a Maryland native, began her career in sports law in the late 1980s, focusing on athlete representation. In 2010, she earned her NFLPA certification, becoming one of the few Black women to represent NFL players. Her dedication to expanding opportunities for women and people of color in sports has been a hallmark of her career.
For Samira Jackson, following in her mother’s footsteps felt like a natural choice. A corporate finance professional with a law degree, Samira watched her mother thrive in the competitive world of sports representation and decided to pursue the same path. In 2022, Samira earned her NFLPA certification, joining her mother in a historic milestone for Black women in the NFL.
Navigating Barriers in the NFL
Both Edy and Samira faced rigorous certification processes, including passing a comprehensive exam, fulfilling continuing education requirements, and demonstrating a deep understanding of NFL rules.
Out of nearly 1,000 certified NFL agents, only 88 are women, and even fewer are Black women, making their accomplishment even more significant.
Edy reflected on the historic moment, telling The Baltimore Sun:
“It’s so important for us to show that Black women belong in this space, and that we can make a significant impact.”
Samira echoed her mother’s sentiments, calling their work both inspiring and empowering.
A Legacy of Representation and Advocacy
With over three decades in sports law, Edy’s journey has paved the way for others in the field. She has represented athletes and entertainers, always focused on creating opportunities for underrepresented groups.
Now, at their firm, Affiliated Sports Advisors (ASA), Edy and Samira are using their platform to break down barriers and represent NFL players, while continuing to build a legacy that promotes diversity and inclusion.
