The National Football League (NFL) has announced it will continue its efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in all levels of the sport, despite recent trends among major US corporations pulling back from similar initiatives. Commissioner Roger Goodell made this commitment during his annual state-of-the-league address, citing the importance of DEI initiatives for attracting top talent and aligning with the league’s values.
Goodell emphasized that the NFL’s efforts are not driven by a trend or to appease any particular administration, but rather because they have proven themselves to be beneficial for the league. The Rooney Rule, which mandates the interviewing of minority candidates during high-ranking coaching and executive positions, has been a key part of this effort. Goodell explained that the rule is based on finding talent from diverse backgrounds, not on specific racial or gender criteria.
The NFL’s stance on DEI initiatives comes as other major corporations have pulled back from similar efforts, with some even eliminating their diversity programs entirely. This shift has raised concerns about a growing trend of corporate America abandoning diversity and inclusion initiatives. The NFL’s commitment to this cause sets it apart from the latest developments in the business world.
Instead of dictating policies for its sponsors, the NFL will continue to have conversations about the importance of diversity and inclusion. Commissioner Goodell stated that the league’s owners participate in all its efforts and are committed to aligning with current administration policies while also doing what is right for the league.
Source: https://sports.yahoo.com/super-bowl-2025-declining-to-follow-lead-of-donald-trumps-white-house-nfl-will-continue-dei-initiatives-013415436.html