Goodell vows diversity push as NFL eyes global growth

VIDEO SHOWS: COMMENTS FROM NFL COMMISSIONER ROGER GOODELL COMPLETE SHOTLIST TO FOLLOW SHOWS: SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES (FEBRUARY 2, 2026) (NFL NETWORK – Must not obscure logo) STORY: NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell vowed on Monday (February) to continue looking into the league's diversity programmes after only one of the 10 head coaching positions went to a Black coach during the latest hiring cycle. Speaking at his annual Super Bowl week press conference in San Jose, Goodell acknowledged the league's inclusion efforts have stalled despite the 2003 "Rooney Rule" requiring teams to interview diverse candidates for coaching and senior football positions. The number of Black head coaches across the 32-team league has now dropped to four, down from a peak of nine in recent years. The commissioner pointed to other areas where the NFL embraces diversity, including selecting Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny as the Super Bowl half-time performer. Asked about the artist's anti-ICE statements at Sunday's Grammy Awards and potential political messaging, Goodell emphasized unity. The NFL's commitment to diversity extends globally. Goodell announced nine international games for next season, including the return to Mexico City in December after a multi-year absence while the stadium underwent World Cup renovations. The league will also debut games in Paris and Australia, while returning to Spain, Brazil, Munich and London. The Mexico City return is particularly significant given the NFL's large Latino fanbase and efforts to maintain a strong presence in one of its most important international markets. On security matters, Goodell said preparations for Sunday's Super Bowl remain unchanged despite questions about potential Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. He clarified the game has always been classified as a SEAR 1 level event, the highest security designation. The commissioner also said the league will review facts surrounding reports linking New York Giants co-owner Steve Tisch to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein before determining whether to open an investigation. The Super Bowl between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots will be played Sunday at Levi's Stadium. (Production: Stefan Haskins)

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