YES Network.com

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell's compensation reached $29.49 million in 2011, nearly tripling his previous salary.

As reported by Sports Business Daily, NFL owners likely made Goodell the highest paid sports commissioner in American sports. Goodell's compensation is performance-based, with $22.3 million of his total salary paid as a bonus. Information about Goodell's salary was disclosed in the NFL's 2011 IRS tax statement, which is public because the NFL is structured as a non-profit. 

"The NFL is the most successful and best-managed sports league in the world," said Atlanta Falcons owner and Compensation Committee Chair Arthur Blank. "This is in no small part due to Roger's leadership and the value he brings to the table in every facet of the sport and business of the league. His compensation reflects that."

Roger Goodell was named NFL Commissioner prior to the 2006 season. Under fire recently for his role in the New Orleans Saints bounty gate scandal, Goodell has overseen an era of unprecedented success for the league. The NFL has enjoyed record TV ratings, high attendance and insatiable fan enthusiasm during Goodell's tenure. He helped create a 10-year labor deal and signed lucrative new TV contracts for the NFL in 2011. 

Follow Matt Hughes on Twitter: @hughesmatt