NFL commissioner Roger Goodell believes his league did well amidst the attacks from President Trump over the weekend.
Goodell praised the league for how they responded to the President’s declaration that players who kneel during the national anthem should be “fired,” referring to them as a “son of a b—-.” To Goodell, the league’s response — which featured numerous teams linking arms and some players kneeling — was perfect.
“The way we reacted today, and this weekend, made me proud,” Goodell told Peter King of the MMQB. “I’m proud of our league.”
Goodell said he consulted with a number of players and coaches as they figured out how to respond to Trump’s comments.
“I spent a lot of time listening to our players and coaches and owners over the past two days,” Goodell said. “They really care about our league. I just think we need more understanding. I was trying to find out with the players and coaches, ‘How are you feeling? What’s going on in your locker rooms?’ They were trying to figure out ways to respond.
“I think we have to be focused on what the NFL is doing — staying true to our values, unifying people and continuing an effort to understand and help improve our communities. People love coming together around football. We saw nothing but exciting football today. I think the public loves our game and recognizes the efforts we’re making with it.”
Sunday saw a whole set of protests in response to President Trump’s attacks. It remains to be seen what next weekend will hold.
