There has been a heavy dialogue surrounding the Super Bowl halftime show after several notable artists reportedly dropped out in support of Kaepernick, who they believe has been blackballed by the league. When asked about this by veteran USA Today reporter Jarrett Bell, Goodell didn’t offer a lot of commentary.
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“We have great artists performing all week here in Atlanta. We’re extremely pleased with the diversity, quality and the excitement surrounding our entertainers. And this is the biggest stage in the world, and I know people want to be part of that," Goodell said initially.
There was no mention at all of Kaepernick’s name, and Goodell’s answer to this question was notably shorter than the answers he gave to several other questions. Goodell only offered more insights after Bell pushed him a bit further, but even then, he didn’t say much.
Later during the conference, Goodell was asked about the fact that Kaepernick is still not on an NFL roster. The quarterback filed a collusion grievance against the NFL in a case that is still ongoing. Goodell’s answer was shorter than the question that prompted it.
Goodell was asked a third question about Kaepernick, which was similar to the second, and he essentially echoed his previous comments.
Goodell: “I’ve said it many times, privately, publicly, our clubs are the ones that make decisions on players they want to have on their roster. They make that individually, they make that in the best interests of their team. And that’s something that we as the NFL take pride in. Individual clubs make decisions that maybe another club won’t do. And they all want to win.”
“I think it’s a repeat of what I just said, which is, that If a team decides Colin Kaepernick or any other player can help their team win, thats what they’ll do,” Goodell said.
