League unveils new social justice program
The NFL is committing $90 million over the next seven years to social justice causes in a three-segment plan that involves league players.
In a memo sent to the 32 teams Friday, the league unveiled what it calls a new and expanded program of community improvement. The NFL Foundation is putting a $3 million grant into the program.
Each NFL team will contribute to the plan, much of which will be funded through “cause related events and consumer products sales, auctions and other promotional sources.” as well as contributions from clubs.
The new initiative comes in response to player demonstrations staged during the national anthem to raise awareness for social issues such as racial inequality.
“Social justice may mean different things to different people and organizations,” wrote Anna Isaacson, the league’s vice president for social responsibility. “The NFL’s work will encompass programs and initiatives that reduce barriers to opportunity, with a priority on supporting improvements in education, community/police relations and our criminal justice system. Additional focus areas include poverty, racial equality and workforce development.”
Packers
Aaron Rodgers’ return is a go.
Green Bay’s two-time MVP quarterback, who was placed on injured reserve after breaking his right collarbone Oct. 15 against Minnesota, is on track to practice Saturday, coach Mike McCarthy said.
“He’s got a workout today that we’ll obviously evaluate,” McCarthy said. “We’re looking tomorrow to potentially practice him in a trial return. That’s the outlook.”
Rodgers had surgery Oct. 19 and was placed on injured reserve the following day. NFL rules allow teams to bring back two players off injured reserve. Those players must be out for a minimum of six weeks; Friday marked six weeks for Rodgers.
Rodgers threw several passes of at least 50 yards before a loss Sunday night to the Steelers.
Broncos
Rather than lament missing a game for the first time since 2009, nose tackle Domata Peko is celebrating his 123-game starting streak that will come to an end this weekend and is vowing to start another one soon.
“I’m just going to work my tail off and try to get a new streak going,” Peko said. “But yeah, 123, thank God for that. That was a good run.”
The longest current streak of consecutive games played by a defensive lineman in the NFL will end this weekend when the Broncos (3-8) visit the Dolphins (47). Coach Vance Joseph ruled out the tenacious nose tackle because of a sprained ligament in his left knee. Peko was injured in the Broncos’ 21-14 loss at Oakland last week.
Falcons
Cornerback Desmond Trufant is out with a concussion and won’t play Sunday when the Falcons play host to Minnesota.
Elsewhere
The NFL and Microsoft extended their partnership, meaning referees figure to be using the Surface tablet for video reviews through the 2018-19 season. Surface tablets also are used by coaches and players on the sideline, including examining photos of previous plays.