NFL’s New Combine Rule May Fine Teams $350k If Broken

The Super Bowl closed the curtains on all the action of the football season. The NFL world already misses its regular dose of excitement. Fortunately, fans have a number of events to look forward to during the offseason. With the free agency window at hand alongside the exciting prospect of the NFL draft, the attention on the league’s managerial front will be higher than ever. At present, teams will remark on taking interviews with the prospects at the NFL’s scouting combine.

But now, the league has issued stringent policies regarding the nature of the interviews. With a huge fine hanging over teams’ heads, fans may question the need for such a strict mandate. Let’s find out the reasons behind the NFL’s move.

The NFL issued a strict warning and accompanying consequences ahead of the combine

In 2016, the Atlanta Falcons’ assistant coach reportedly inquired about current Bengals CB Eli Apple’s sexual identity. He later apologized for his intrusive question. But, other draft prospects in the NFL have also shed light on some of the bizarre questions that were posed to them during the combine. To curb the potential occurrence of such events, the league has now issued a strict warning.

According to a memo released by the league, improper or offensive questions will result in consequences for the teams. If teams are found to have conducted themselves in an inappropriate manner, a minimum fine of $350,000 will be levied.

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According to CBS Sports, the NFL’s memo emphasized professionalism, respect, and dignity. The league’s notice also focused on federal and state laws that prohibit questions relating to certain aspects of a prospect’s life. The laws ensure that an individual is not discriminated against based on factors like race, sexual orientation, and religion among others.

The league’s diligence with the memo called for the utmost cooperation from teams

The NFL had also offered teams a chart that lists out acceptable questions. Alongside that, they also presented those that pose a risk for unlawful discrimination. The league also listed examples and alternatives that teams could use in their line of questioning.

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Apart from the fine, forfeiture of a draft pick no later than the third round will also be issued as a consequence. Previously, the punishment for breaking the code was set at $150,000. In light of players’ revelations regarding some of the questions that they encountered, this move from the NFL was perhaps long overdue.