Roger Goodell Admits The NFL Was Wrong For Not Listening To Players About Peaceful Protest

We, the NFL, condemn racism and the systematic oppression of Black People. We, the NFL, admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest. We, the NFL, believe Black Lives Matter. #InspireChange pic.twitter.com/ENWQP8A0sv

— NFL (@NFL) June 5, 2020

Roger Goodell put out the video statement above on behalf of the NFL just a day after players made their stance clear:

#StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/sfwF9Uvgaa

— Patrick Mahomes II (@PatrickMahomes) June 5, 2020

Goodell’s statement also comes on the heels of President Trump expressing disappointment in Drew Brees’s apology and anger at potential American flag protests.

Although people quickly pointed out that Roger Goodell did not call out Colin Kaepernick in any way, it seems like a step taken by the NFL. It may be too little, too late for some. But the NFL’s actions from here on out, and tangible support of Black players and people, will be what determines the content of Goodell’s character (if any, based on what we’ve seen previously).