Roger Goodell – the least popular but most wanted man in the league – NFL Feature
National Football League (NFL) commissioner Roger Goodell has become the most talked-about subject in the league, on both sides of the opinion – positive and negative. He is equally wanted by former league players and officials as he is in demand among the
current ones, irrespective of the fact that he is the least popular among both segments of the community.
Some members of the pro football community see him as their direct and probably personal enemy, although what he is doing is from the platform of the league, a forum represented by 32 franchises.
All his decisions, even if they are his own ideas, have to be laid before the owners, discussed and approved with backing of a majority. Otherwise, they stand rejected and nullified.
One particular aspect of the controversy that has made the commissioner a common enemy in the league, and particularly among players community, is his persistence with issue of players’ on-field safety.
The opinion has completely swayed against him, from all corners. A large number of former league players are in courts accusing the office of compromising, mishandling and mistreating their injuries, head injuries more precisely. They ask for compensation
of what they and their families have suffered as a result of their injuries.
On other hand, he is accused of abusing his powers by putting too much weight on players’ safety. Some extremes believe the culture of hitting and hurting has always been a part of the pro football in America, and Roger’s efforts are not justified.
They mention some of steps that have so far been introduced by the office, although not substantial enough to check illegal hits and fouls at once, as personal agenda of the commissioner.
Not to forget suspensions of a number of players and officials who are alleged perpetrators of the bounty scandal. It has brought the players and commissioner face-to-face. Cleveland Browns linebacker Scott Fujita has counted every single step of the league
office, which he said was introduced by the commissioner through misuse of his powers.
The regulator has defended itself throughout. For example, the office denied of compromising players’ safety in the past and at present. It said that protection of players from injuries has always been its priority and will always be.
Although the task of the commissioner of promoting players’ safety is far from being achieved and over, it is just beginning, he should be aware that it brings along many challenges. The office needs to remain resolute and determined if it believes that
the issue of players’ safety is its genuine cause. It should be willing to defy all odds to change the traditional mindset to see that the sport of American football is as safe as it can be.
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