As everyone is bearing witness to right now, the NFL has created a culture of fear. Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers is certainly not immune to that.
You can blame whoever you like, but here’s exactly where it came from. When the NFLPA negotiated the latest collective bargaining agreement with the league, they gave the league and commissioner Roger Goodell unchecked power to “protect the shield.” In other words, Goodell and company can do whatever they want if they deem it to be for the good of the league.
The players acquiesced to this in exchange for things like fewer padded practices, fewer mandatory activities and a greater slice of league revenue, which means higher salaries.
In other words, they agreed to be a slave to the man for more money and less work.
You see that playing out right now with Clay Matthews and Julius Peppers. The league is now threatening to suspend both players for refusing to submit to interviews about alleged drug use. And that’s all there are — allegations.
But the NFL isn’t going to back down. Because they’re a bully.
Rodgers suggested that’s exactly why he isn’t more vocal when compared to players in other sports, specifically the NBA.
“One-hundred percent. And I think it starts with leadership. I think [NBA commissioner Adam Silver] has done a good job promoting that type of environment. And I think some guys in the NFL are probably worried about repercussions on speaking their mind from the league.”
That’s pretty accurate.
To say individuality is frowned upon in the NFL would be an understatement. Look how the league dictates what players wear and how they wear it. Look at the celebration rules.
We don’t want anyone having any fun playing this game!
Interestingly, Rodgers also suggested if more guys spoke their minds, others might follow.
“Those guys are doing it and they feel comfortable doing it,” Rodgers said. “I think if more guys maybe did in our league, it would create a domino effect possibly.”
Rodgers is definitely one of the biggest names in the league. Is he thinking of speaking out more often? At least one topic seems to suggest that’s possible.
Rodgers has continuously railed on the length of the preseason dating back to last year. Some people see that as him complaining, and that’s valid, but it’s also a criticism of the NFL.
Just like his comments here, which shine a light on the draconian environment Goodell has created.
But such is to be expected when the only concern is money.