President Donald Trump recently made headlines for taking credit in former San Francisco 49ers Quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s unemployment. Alluding to what Trump felt was the owners of NFL teams being afraid of his twitter criticism for signing the outspoken Kaepernick.
While on ESPN’s Mike & Mike, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell was asked his opinion on the President’s comments.
“That’s a comment that he is going to make and that’s fine”, Goodell said.
Goodell also indicated that Kaepernick is only being evaluated for his on-field abilities and not a barrage of disapproval from fans.
“Our teams are out there working hard to figure out how they can improve each of their clubs. They’re making the best decisions they can. And they’re going to do what they can to improve their teams and win. That’s what they want to do for the fans. So that’s what they’re focused on and that’s what we’re focused on. Everyone’s going to make other comments, and obviously we’re respectful of those comments, particularly from the president.”
Despite heavy condemnation for the lack of interest in Kaepernick’s services due to his opinions, Goodell says that he believes teams are ultimately focused on getting players that will help them win.
“I can’t speculate on that,” Goodell said. “The 32 owners, I think their major focus is on winning and whatever it takes to win and they think reflects well on their team, that’s what they’re gonna do. And so I think from their standpoint, they want to win, and they’re putting teams together and trying to find the players and coaches and everyone else who can help create that kind of chemistry that’s going to lead to a winning team.”
The wait to see if NFL franchises feel Kaepernick can help a team continues.