I recently came across an article discussing Roger Goodell, NFL commissioner, and how he has handled all of the NFL “scandals” that have happened over this past season. The article discusses Ray Rice, the Baltimore Ravens running back whos story of knocking his girlfriend out in an elevator surveillance video stormed the media last year. Adrienne Peterson, the Minnesota Vikings running back, who had reports of child abuse last year after whopping his son with a “tree branch” a.k.a “switch” to many of us. Of course an NFL article covering integrity wouldn’t be complete without mentioning “deflategate.” The NFL scandal surrounding the New England Patriots, 2015 Super Bowl Champions, in which it was found that the Patriots used underinflated balls in the American Football Conference Championship game against the Indianapolis Colts.
I found this article interesting because it asks the question, when it comes to the image of integrity in the NFL are the teams, owners and players REALLY to blame for the image lost? Or is the lack of set rules and procedures set by the commissioner regarding the players and teams behavior and actions inside and outside the organization to blame?
One could argue both sides. As adults it could be said that each team and individual player should be responsible for themselves. This isn’t kindergarten and no one should need a babysitter. Which is a very valid argument. Although I don’t disagree with this, another very valid point was brought up in the article. One of the problems that was brought up was how unorganized the NFL’s policies and procedures regarding behavior are and how Roger Goodell seems to make up the consequences as he goes along. Unlike many other professional sports who have very clear policies in place for their teams and players. I agree that in past situations Goodell has enforced very strict punishment on less “serious” behavior and enforced less harsh punishment in some recent, more serious situations.
I feel as though the NFL needs to create a standard policy dealing with behavior and moral situations that may come about in the future. Although each consequence will vary based on the individual situation there should still be a set of standard policies and procedures to ensure that all teams, players, and situations are treated fairly. This also helps individual situations stay in the media for a shorter amount of time because they will be settled in a timely manner, in turn helping the NFL keep a more “integrity” like image.
How do you feel about the image of the NFL and its players? Who or what’s to blame in your opinion?
DeCarlo Finesse Middleton
dfmidd01 