In a recent press conference ahead of Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell reaffirmed the league’s commitment to its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This stance comes in contrast to President Donald Trump’s recent executive order directing federal agencies to dismantle DEI programs and encouraging private companies to follow suit.
Goodell emphasized that the NFL’s dedication to diversity is not a reactionary measure but a foundational principle aimed at enhancing the league’s overall quality. He stated, “We got into diversity efforts because we felt like it was the right thing for the National Football League, and we’re going to continue those efforts because we’ve not only convinced ourselves, we’ve proven ourselves, that it does make the NFL better.”
Addressing the league’s hiring practices, Goodell clarified that while the NFL encourages a diverse pool of candidates, there are no mandates to hire individuals based on race or gender. He explained, “It’s simply on the basis of looking at a campus of candidates that reflect our communities and to look at the kind of talent that exists there, and then you make the best decision on who is hired.”
Despite longstanding criticisms regarding the lack of diversity among coaching and executive positions, the NFL has implemented measures such as the Rooney Rule to promote inclusivity. Goodell reiterated that these efforts are designed to attract top talent and are not influenced by external political pressures.
The commissioner’s remarks underscore the NFL’s position that embracing DEI principles is integral to the league’s success and reflective of its diverse fan base, communities, and players. Goodell concluded, “So many of us, including the National Football League at our office, are doing that voluntarily at all levels because it has benefited us. And I hear that from companies on a global basis. That’s a very strong hiring practice we’re adopting also.”