From: officialflagrant
Recent events involving NFL team owners have brought to light significant power dynamics and accusations within the league [01:17:19].
The Case of Dan Snyder and the Washington Commanders
Dan Snyder, the owner of the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins), has been a contentious figure for about 20 years, with the team performing poorly since he took over [01:17:25]. Snyder faces multiple accusations, including allegations of racism and sexual misconduct [01:17:35]. A congressional hearing is currently underway against him [01:17:39].
Many believe Snyder is detrimental to the league, prompting other owners, who are typically tight-knit, to consider removing him due to the financial costs associated with his controversies [01:17:44].
Allegations and Owner Collusion
In response to attempts to oust him, Snyder reportedly threatened to expose dirt on numerous other NFL owners, including Jerry Jones [01:18:21]. An allegation against Jerry Jones surfaced shortly after Snyder’s threat [01:18:30]. This suggests a “if I go down, we all going down” mentality [01:18:36]. The idea that a “super ethical billionaire does not exist” and that “everybody got dirt” is proposed [01:18:43].
If an owner is “fucking up the bag for everybody,” then other owners might collude to get them out, even if it means snitching [01:19:50].
The Commissioner’s Role
The NFL commissioner, Roger Goodell, has reportedly used his power to control the media in order to pressure Dan Snyder [01:20:03]. For example, during a Thursday night football game, a commentator openly listed Snyder’s scandals, which is unusual for NFL broadcasts [01:20:08]. This tactic is believed to be the commissioner’s way of publicly urging Snyder to sell the team to avoid a more contentious removal process [01:20:56].
Forced Sales in Sports
Previous cases like Donald Sterling (NBA’s Clippers) and the owner of the Carolina Panthers show that team owners can be forced to sell their franchises due to sexual misconduct allegations [01:32:00].
Broader Implications of NFL Owner Power
The discussions highlight that NFL owners wield significant power and primarily focus on financial gain [01:18:51]. In contrast, NFL players are seen as having no power [01:20:20]. The situation with Snyder exemplifies how the league’s hierarchy operates when controversies threaten financial stability and public image [01:20:00].