Jay Z had a reason to smile in 2013. The investigation by NFLPA yielded no punishment for the mogul and Roc Nation Sports. In addition, it made the NFLPA alter its regulations. The incident was in connection with the then-new and the present talk of the town, Geno Smith.
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Smith, a former Jets player, was represented by Kimberly Ann Miale. Earlier, Smith parted from Select Sports Group in the second round of the 2013 NFL draft. His signing was a breakthrough for Miale, but many outsiders questioned how she signed Smith, and whether Jay Z, Roc Nation Sports’ founder, violated any rules to recruit the QB for Miale.
But later, it was all found to be untrue. Cut to 2022, Smith is one of the top guns in the league with some consistent performances.
What was NFLPA’s stand on the Geno Smith issue?
The NFLPA has an extremely restrictive application period, which remains open for 1 month each year. Jay Z received certification to serve as a player agent from the MLB Players Association and National Basketball Players Association. After the inquiry, it was found that Jay Z did not woo Smith from his prior advisors.
Following the issue, NFLPA distributed a memorandum that clarified the union’s “Runner Rule.” NFLPA made new clarifications to the regulations, referred to as the “Jay Z Rule.” This permitted a non-certified individual to meet once with a player if the meeting was being held with a certified Contract Advisor present and at the Contract Advisor’s office. It brought relief to many players and agents.
Meanwhile, the Seahawks’ offense has found mojo after Smith gave them a vital contribution as a player. The #7 QB has been consistent with his unique skill of mixing the running game with accuracy. The Seahawks are ranked first in the NFC West. They next meet Tom Brady and the Buccaneers in the Sunday game. A lot will be expected of the talented Seahawks QB.
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When NFL and NFLPA agreed to be on the same page
After the dangerous injury to Tua Tagovailoa and pressure from players, including Aaron Rodgers, NFL and NFLPA, made an agreement on the concussion rules. The Dolphins QB played in the game after a concussion incident, and it led to a wide debate.
In the end, both NFL and NFLPA took a stand to protect players who return to play. However, such a united stand was missing in the earlier issue of Geno Smith, as both were at different ends. An agreement was created, and a decision was made, which led to a closure of the issue.
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Meanwhile, Geno Smith has been a revelation in the new season. He has overtaken Tom Brady, A-Rod, and his former teammate Russell Wilson. A proud Jay Z can smile more. He probably saw it coming.
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