Granted, the position is currently filled, but if the embattled Roger Goodell is somehow ousted from his lofty position as NFL Commish, a movement, which started more as a whisper in past days, is reportedly seriously and rapidly growing, from all political persuasions, for Condoleezza Rice to replace him. And not in a Barack Obama, politically-correct, feel-good kinda way. But because she’s qualified.
As far back as 2002, Condi Rice has regarded the position of NFL Commissioner as her “dream job.” We all know that the former Secretary of State is highly educated, has a brilliant mind, is extraordinarily accomplished, and is as competent and tough as they come. She’s no community organizer; she’s the real deal, and the league would be fortunate to have her.
To his credit, Goodell is reportedly placing four women from various fields, all who appear qualified, in position to help shape future league policy. It’s a start, though an inordinately belated one. You can read the text of the letter Goodell released to teams and NFL staff and the qualifications of the four women here. Here’s hoping this isn’t just a case of affirmative action in hopes of silencing his critics.
The question remains, however, whether or not the current rash of scandals plaguing the NFL will cost Goodell his job. If indeed it is proved that Goodell knew, and ignored, the fact that Ray Rice brutally assaulted his future wife—he certainly could easily have killed her in that elevator—it could very well merit his resignation. And someone with knowledge of the league, who’s trustworthy and competent will be required to clean up the mess Goodell has allowed to fester until being pushed into addressing it. Condi Rice could very well be a perfect fit for those shoes, and wear them well.
In light of the breaking news that Adrian Peterson is allegedly not a one-time child abuser, but reportedly a serial offender, and the list of other players who find themselves embroiled in their own legal challenges with regard to assault, perhaps it is well past time for new leadership over at the offices of the NFL. Rice is not the only qualified potential replacement, of course, but she’s proven herself more than able to handle adversity and more than adept at problem-solving. And she’s already expressed a desire to add the position of NFL Commissioner to her vast resume.
The numbers of football fans who also happen to be women are growing, and now make up nearly half of the fan base. But scrutiny is up, and ratings are down. And it’s not yet known if the most recent rash of assault charges against a handful of league players is the reason, but it’s surely having some impact. Between you and I, I hope the position of NFL Commissioner is vacated. And soon.
Anyone have Condi’s number?
There has been talk that Goodell was between a rock and a hard place with the Ray Rice incident. If he had banished Rice from the outset, he would have been called a racist for coming too hard in an unprecedented way against a black man. So Condi Rice (presumably no relation to Ray) would not have to worry about that accusation. I for one would love to see her in the NFL Commissioner’s position. The male players who have a tendency to be violent might actually think twice if they knew a female held their fate in her hands.
If the NFL is like baseball then Rice won’t have a chance. Baseball’s owners elect a commish that fills their pockets the most while being somewhat controllable. Rice might be too independent for NFL owners to be their commish. Even if Rice would land the job it wouldn’t be too surprising if several owners end up sabotaging her efforts since theirs is such a testosterone driven sport.
I haven’t heard much about how familiar she is with football – I’d think that is ALSO an important consideration.
Merle
Condi Rice would be a great choice for NFL commissioner. Of course it will never happen.
And it’s not hard to see why. The NFL is becoming a politically correct sewer (which is why I stopped watching it last season). Condi Rice, in the eyes of our self-anointed moral betters, is considered worse than Hitler. Recall all the violent racist language the Left used against Condi when she was Secretary of State? That will seem like a picnic compared to what the MSM/DNC axis will unleash on her this time.
The Left is more likely to allow Ray Rice to become NFL Commissioner than Condi.
There have been Leftists calling for her to replace Goodell. But, alas, you’re likely right, RL.
the nfl is a cesspool of taxpayer funding for its stadiums, security and payoffs to politicians to get those things. i don’t watch them nor do I give a rodents behind about what they think or do. google their denial to the border patrol for ad space in the stupor bowl program in miami a few years back …. i used to have a high opinion of Ms Rice.. should she associate with the nfl then she falls to the level of politicians and other POS’s
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