The NFL and a coalition of NFL players reached an agreement that will have the NFL commit nearly $100 Million to social justice causes. ESPN’s Jim Trotter and Jason Reid reported on the story.
BREAKING: NFL and Players Coalition on verge of partnership that would see league/owners contribute close to $100 million toward social justice causes. @JReidESPN and I report here: https://t.co/Qbg2U5vCt9
— Jim Trotter (@JimTrotter_NFL) November 29, 2017
The coalition of players was lead by Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins and retired wide receiver Anquan Boldin. Both men discussed the details with the nearly 40 players who are apart of the coalition. The amount promised by the NFL surpasses any amount given to a specific cause, such as Salute to Service and Breast Cancer Awareness.
This initiative between the NFL, owners and Players Coalition does not mandate an end to any player demonstrations. Its always been about the issues; strengthening the criminal justice system and fight for racial and social equality. #PlayersCoalition pic.twitter.com/4Nl2pP5ltG
— Malcolm Jenkins (@MalcolmJenkins) November 30, 2017
In an interview with the New York Daily Post, Boldin said:
“It was big of the NFL to listen to its players and the concerns that players have had over the years. It’s definitely something that’s near and dear to a number of players in the NFL. I think the NFL got it right.”
The NFL has come under critical eyes since quarterback Colin Kaepernick began kneeling during the national anthem in 2016. Kaepernick was protesting the mistreatment of minorities in America. GQ Magazine recently named Kaepernick Citizen of the Year for his protest.
The agreement does not force players to stop their protest. However, the NFL is hoping that this deal will please players around the league and they will cease their protest. Many people within the United States have called for a boycott of the NFL because of the protests.
Though this seems to be what the coalition wanted, some of its members were unhappy with the outcome. Some of these players posted their displeasure on Twitter.
— Eric Reid (@E_Reid35) November 29, 2017
— Michael Thomas (@Michael31Thomas) November 29, 2017
I agree with @E_Reid35’s assessment & also withdrew my involvement with the Players Coalition, effective earlier today. pic.twitter.com/A3zpQ4BN5N
— Russell Okung (@RussellOkung) November 30, 2017
The money from this agreement will go to multiple organizations that support social justice causes. This enormous amount of funds in the right hands can do a lot of good. It is definitely a positive step in the right direction. The coalition will continue to pursue other ways to help in need communities.
