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Former NFL Media journalist Jim Trotter is suing the league, alleging it has failed to address long-standing institutional discrimination.
Trotter claimed the league chose not to renew his contract after he repeatedly raised concerns about equity, racial injustice and racially insensitive comments. The comments include those made by Jerry Jones and Terry Pegula, the Dallas Cowboys and Buffalo Bills owners.
He also mentioned that his complaints to NFL executives, including Commissioner Roger Goodell, regarding these matters and the lack of diversity among NFL Media staff had gone unanswered.
Speaking through his law firm, Wigdor, Trotter said the NFL must uphold its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. He highlighted that his efforts to hold the league accountable had resulted in him losing his job.
“I’m filing this lawsuit because I can’t complain about things that are wrong if I’m unwilling to fight for what is right,” he said.
In response, the NFL issued a statement contradicting Trotter’s allegations. It emphasized taking Trotter’s concerns seriously but strongly disagreed with his specific allegations. The league also mentioned that Trotter’s contract was not renewed primarily due to business decisions driven by economic challenges and shifts in the media landscape.
In a statement, Pegula denied the false allegation and expressed surprise at being linked to it. Meanwhile, Jones renounced Trotter’s claim and firmly asserted that he and the NFL prioritize diversity and inclusion in their values.
Concerns over NFL’s diversity practices
Trotter’s lawsuit highlights the underrepresentation of Black individuals in managerial roles or on the news desk at NFL Media.
He requested a court-appointed monitor to assess the NFL’s policies and improve its practices related to recruiting, retaining and promoting Black employees across the organization.
Trotter also voiced his concerns to Goodell about the lack of Black individuals in decision-making roles in multiple news conferences. This includes conferences held during the league’s Super Bowl events in February.
In response, Goodell stressed that fostering change is a collective responsibility for everyone in the NFL, not just one entity. He highlighted the league’s commitment to improving diversity and inclusivity to provide equal opportunities for all within the organization.
NFL Media pointed out that their three most recent senior hires include two Black individuals and one Hispanic. Among its nine most recent on-air additions, eight come from diverse backgrounds, seven of whom are Black.
