Roger Goodell says lack of diversity among head coaches has been ‘unacceptable’ in memo sent to NFL teams

In the aftermath of Brian Flores filing a lawsuit against the league alleging racism in its hiring practices, the NFL came out with a statement saying that his claims were “without merit.” However, in a memo recently released to teams, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell acknowledged the clear lack of diversity among head coaching hirings in the league.

“We have made significant efforts to promote diversity and adopted numerous policies and programs which have produced positive change in many areas, however we must acknowledge that particularly with respect to head coaches the results have been unacceptable,” the memo, obtained by CBS Sports senior NFL insider Jonathan Jones, reads. “We will reevaluate and examine all policies, guidelines, and initiatives relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion, including as they relate to gender.”

So far this hiring cycle, white men have filled all six head coaching vacancies while three more positions remain open. Goodell added that the league is retaining outside experts to assist in this review and is expected to seek out input from current and former players to help address this issue as well. 

“We understand the concerns expressed by Coach Flores and others this week,” wrote Goodell. “While the legal process moves forward, we will not wait to reassess and modify our strategies to ensure that they are consistent with our values and longstanding commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. In particular, we recognize the need to understand the lived experiences of diverse members of the NFL family to ensure that everyone has access to opportunity and is treated with respect and dignity.” 

Goodell also touched on the allegations made by Flores regarding Dolphins owner Stephen Ross trying to pay Flores $100,000 per loss while he was the head coach in Miami during the 2019 season. 

“We also take seriously any issue relating to the integrity…