The time for words is over.
But as we’re seeing from a significant number of NFL teams, even empty words are a bridge too far.
As of this writing, 16 teams had posted at minimum a statement, either under the franchise logo or with the owner’s name attached, to their social media channels. They’re all different, but generally they condemn the killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police and pledge to go beyond words to offer action.
Some, like Baltimore Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti and New Orleans Saints owner Gayle Benson, wrote about actionable steps they’re taking immediately: Bisciotti is donating $1 million, with players deciding how and where the money should be distributed; Benson, who also owns the New Orleans Pelicans, announced the formation of a Social Justice Leadership coalition with players from both teams.