Longtime NFL writer Jim Trotter has filed a racial discrimination lawsuit against the NFL and NFL Network, according to the New York Times.
Trotter, who now works for The Athletic, alleged he was let go due to criticism of the league’s lack of diversity, including within the ranks of its league office and media networks.
“The NFL has claimed it wants to be held accountable regarding diversity, equity and inclusion,” he said. “I tried to do so, and it cost me my job.”
Trotter’s lawsuit lays out claims that extend beyond Roger Goodell, the NFL and it’s owned media network.
Per the NY Times, Trotter recounts an alleged conversation with Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones in August of 2020 about the lack of African Americans in position of authority within the NFL front offices:
“If Blacks feel some kind of way, they should buy their own team and hire who they want to hire,” Jones is alleged to have responded.
Trotter also mentions another alleged conversation he had with Bills owner Terry Pegula in reference to player protests against racial injustices:
“If Black players don’t like it here, they should go back to Africa and see how bad it is.”
In response to these allegations, both Jerry Jones (Cowboys) and Terry Pegula (Bills) released the following statement disputing the claims by Trotter:
The NFL responded to the lawsuit in a statement on Tuesday, claiming Trotter’s contract was allowed to expire because the league website could no longer afford to keep him on staff.
‘We share Jim Trotter’s passion for quality journalism created in and supported by a diverse and inclusive environment,’ read the statement from league spokesman, Brian McCarthy. ‘We take his concerns seriously, but strongly dispute his specific allegations, particularly those made against his dedicated colleagues at NFL Media.
‘Mr. Trotter’s departure from NFL Media was one of many difficult decisions – similar to decisions recently made by many other media organizations — to address a challenging economy and a changing media environment. Jim was one of many employees who were unfortunately affected by these business decisions.’
Trotter joined NFL Media in 2017. Prior to that, he covered the NFL for Sports Illustrated and ESPN.
