Roger Goodell will be at the NFL Draft on Thursday, but it might not be business as usual for the commissioner.
Goodell underwent back surgery earlier this month, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Details of the procedure are unknown, but Goodell is reportedly recovering well. However, as of Thursday afternoon, it’s unclear whether he’ll be able to greet the first-round picks with a hug like he usually does.
According to Schefter, this is considered a “project-time decision.”
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell had back surgery three weeks ago and has recovered well, but it remains unclear whether he will be able to offer his patented hugs on draft day. Decision at the time of the project. pic.twitter.com/est2W3CXQT
–Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 25, 2024
While it may seem minor, it’s easy to see how a hug from an excited NFL rookie could end up further hurting the 65-year-old commissioner’s back. If Goodell gets hit by the hug the wrong way, it could easily set him back.
Goodell took over as league commissioner in 2006. He reached a deal to extend his tenure through the 2027 season last fall, bringing his time leading the NFL to more than two decades from now the end of his contract. It’s unclear how much his contract is worth, although he reportedly earned just under $64 million for the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons. This was the fourth extension given to Goodell since he took office.
Goodell usually announces picks for the first round of the draft. The second and third rounds of this year’s event will be announced Friday by the team’s players and former legends, the league announced Thursday. For example, Hall of Famers Barry Sanders and Calvin Johnson will announce the Lions’ picks. Goodell’s role in the draft largely ends Thursday night, which should help his back greatly.
Even though hugs won’t be available on Thursday, it’s a safe bet that fans will still greet Goodell like they always do when he takes the stage in Detroit.
