Roger Goodell is being warned against kissing players during the 2024 NFL Draft due to recent back surgery.
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- Goodell underwent back surgery three weeks ago, according to ESPN
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One of the biggest questions heading into Thursday’s NFL Draft was the status of commissioner Roger Goodell’s traditional hugs with rookies.
As ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported, Goodell had back surgery three weeks ago, and while he is recovering, it was unclear if he planned to hug on Thursday in Detroit.
Goodell, who is booed by angry fans before every NFL draft, is also known for welcoming players to the league with a firm hug.
In 2023, for example, former Alabama linebacker Will Anderson Jr. lifted Goodell while hugging the commissioner after being taken by the Houston Texans.
The second and third rounds of this year’s draft will be announced by team players and retirees on Friday before the draft concludes on Saturday.
NFL Football Commissioner Roger Goodell addresses the crowd before the start of a football prospecting clinic with Special Olympics athletes Wednesday.
For the Detroit Lions, who are hosting this year’s draft, Hall of Famers Barry Sanders and Calvin Johnson will be on hand to announce their picks.
Goodell has served as NFL commissioner since succeeding Paul Tagliabue in 2006.
Last fall, he was granted an extension until March 2027.
A person familiar with the details told The Associated Press that Goodell’s deal included extension or succession clauses. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because details were not released.
Goodell’s current contract was set to expire in the spring of 2024.
“It was really, really simple,” Goodell said. “It was just a matter of getting there. It wasn’t really a discussion. I am obviously honored to do this work.
Bryce Young hugs NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after being selected first overall by the Carolina Panthers in 2023
The financial terms of Goodell’s new contract were not immediately known. He reportedly earned $63.9 million for the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons.
Under Goodell’s leadership, the NFL’s popularity and revenue soared. The Washington Commanders were sold for a record $6.05 billion earlier this year.
“I think it was unified, I think everyone was behind it and it just takes a while to do these things,” Colts owner Jim Irsay said of the extension. “I really think everyone is in favor, everyone is excited and everyone recognizes the work Roger has done. Like Paul Tagliabue, I think Roger will go into the Hall of Fame one day.
Goodell has also faced scrutiny and criticism regarding the league’s handling of off-field issues involving players, including domestic violence, and the initial response to Colin Kaepernick’s call for social justice by kneeling during the national anthem.
