- Jim Trotter accuses the NFL of institutional discrimination in a recent lawsuit.
- Team owners Jerry Jones and Terry Pegula have been cited for allegedly making racially insensitive comments.
- The NFL refutes the allegations, citing economic reasons for not renewing Trotter’s contract.
- Trotter’s lawsuit seeks a complete review and revision of the NFL’s hiring policies concerning Black employees.
- NFL claims recent senior hires prove their commitment to diversity.
Former NFL Media journalist Jim Trotter has filed a lawsuit against the league, alleging long-standing institutional discrimination. Trotter claims that his contract was not renewed because he consistently raised racial equity and justice concerns.
Jim Trotter named Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and Buffalo Bills owner Terry Pegula, accusing them of making racially insensitive comments. Trotter alleges that they were disregarded when he brought up these concerns to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and other league executives.
My reasons for filing a retaliation lawsuit against the NFL run deep. They include the following: pic.twitter.com/YWlDPAmJhO
— Jim Trotter (@JimTrotter_NFL) September 12, 2023
Statements from the Accused
The NFL countered Trotter’s claims, stating their decision not to renew his contract was based on economic and media environment changes, not on the allegations brought forth.
Terry Pegula has also denied any allegations against him, expressing his horror over the association of his name with such a claim. In his statement, Jerry Jones disputed Trotter’s portrayal of a conversation they had three years ago.
From the Jim Trotter complaint against the NFL. Note the quotes attributed to Jerry Jones and Terry Pegula. pic.twitter.com/mAQz27QxuR
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) September 12, 2023
Lawsuit Aims for Overhaul
Trotter is advocating for placing a court-ordered monitor to assess and overhaul the NFL’s hiring, retention, and advancement policies of Black employees across its structure. His lawsuit emphasizes that NFL Media didn’t have a single Black individual in a managerial role or on its news desk.
NFL’s Response
In response to Trotter’s concerns regarding the lack of Black professionals in decision-making positions, the NFL pointed to its recent hires. The league highlighted that three of its latest senior hires are people of color.
Lawyer’s Statement
Douglas Wigdor and David Gottlieb, representing Trotter, stated, “The NFL should be ashamed of the racial animus openly expressed by team owners and a complete lack of action by the league after being put on notice.”
