Once again, Mr. Vincent is in the news. Today it was revealed that, apparently, the NFL's VP of Football Operations, Troy Vincent, had been recorded by Adrian Peterson. The recording had Vincent tell Peterson that "his time on the commissioner's exempt list would be considered time served and that he would be suspended two additional games and not be subjected to the new personal conduct policy on domestic violence - mandating a six-game suspension without pay - if he attended a Nov. 14 disciplinary hearing with Roger Goodell."
Despite this exchange, Peterson was suspended due to charges of child abuse. The NFL has used his situation to show a stronger enforcement on the personal lives of its players. While I agree the NFL should do everything possible to promote better social practices, it is demonstrating rather reactionary and haphazard practices and is exploiting this case to frame its image as a socially responsible company.
Instead of looking at these situations in a reactionary sense the NFL should change its position. Their current question is, How do we enforce ethical / legal issues that impact our players, staffs, coaches, and front office executives? Conversely, their question should start as, How do we stand on the forefront of defining ethics in society? The league could become a leading organization for corporations across the globe.
Referring back to our past change management course, the NFL should create a coalition of players, coaches, league staff, and league executives. This group should review annually the ethical trends in society and validate the NFL's policies on ethical dilemmas. Additionally, they could examine the ethical infringements from the past year and discuss how to set up better enforcement and community outreach. If the players' union did not care to participate because it falls outside of collective bargaining, I would recommend to NFL Commissioner, Rodger Goodell, that the public should be aware of the hesitancy to join. Instead of having the league placing pressure on the unions to review the ethical standards and enforcement policies, the fans and general public would could create a groundswell and move the unions to action. If these changes did occur, the league would receive the benefit of a greater public opinion, which may lead to more fan appreciation.
Clearly, given the NFL's conflicting responses over Peterson's suspension length, engaging in a review of their ethics and ethical polices would better help them market their game moving forward.
Adrian Peterson Responds
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