Roger Goodell Sends a Letter to NFL Fans
Patriots.com posted a letter Monday morning that was sent to all NFL fans in their database from commissioner Roger Goodell, and the letter addressed a variety of topics.
In the letter Goodell said that, "I know we can reach an agreement," referring to the current labor situation. He also discussed the innovations that the league has made, including the RedZone channel along with improving the television coverage along with moving the Pro Bowl date to the week before the Super Bowl. Goodell also said that the current economic conditions are much different than when the last one was done, and that he "gets it" that fans are struggling financially and need to get the most for their money.
Economic conditions, however, have changed dramatically inside and outside the NFL since 2006 when we negotiated the last CBA. A 10 percent unemployment rate hurts us all. Fans have limited budgets and rightly want the most for their money. I get it.
Yes, NFL players deserve to be paid well. Unfortunately, economic realities are forcing everyone to make tough choices and the NFL is no different. These are not easy negotiations, but the outcome can be positive. If both sides give a little, everyone, including fans, will get a lot and the game will improve through innovation.
Goodell also goes on to say that they're moving toward changing the culture of playing through head injuries and focusing much more on player safety, and he also discusses the move to an 18-game season. So be sure and check it out.
