In an interview with Billboard, Sully Erna told the magazine that "When Legends Rise" came from a sense of rebirth and reinvention on both personal and musical levels.
[3] The clip, directed by Sully Erna in conjunction with Paris Visone, alternates between footage of the band performing live and highlights of pivotal moments in recent football history, concluding with a shot of the New England Patriots Super Bowl trophy.
[3] In a statement released by the band, it was revealed the clip was the result of Erna collaborating directly with the NFL for three months.
Blabbermouth's reviewer Jay Gorania praised Shannon Larkin's performance on the track but noted that the chorus was "perfunctory at best.
"[10] AllMusic's reviewer Neil Yeung described the song as a "rousing avalanche of drums and guitar" and praised Erna's vocal delivery.