Roger Goodell Letter on Chris Foerster

To: Chief Executives/ Club Presidents

From: Commissioner Goodell

Date: October 10, 2017

Re: Fall Meeting/Chris Foerster

We live in a country that can feel very divided. Sports, and especially the NFL, brings people together and lets them set aside those divisions, at least for a few hours. Recently those divisions were highlighted when a video leaked involving former Miami Dolphins coach Chris Foerster. The video was troubling and highlighted a huge underlying issue within the league. Is it ok to fall in live with a stripper?

This debate has been raging since T-Pain’s 2005 hit song “I’m in Luv (wit a stripper.) Many players throughout the league have expressed their opinions on the matter. We’ve even had town hall forums to discuss the controversial issue. But as a league and a nation we cannot let these differences divide us. Instead I encourage all players and all teams to unite and stand. To honor the stripper and stand for the pole.

It’s not a question of love for a stripper but a love for this great nation. A nation that was built on the backs of girls dancing and shaking their butts. The controversy about stripper love will continue throughout the county and within the NFL community. And while I support open dialogue within the league and NFLPA, I ask that everyone remember how much strippers have given to us. They’ve poured out their souls night after night entertaining our players. It’s from their gyrating bottoms the country was built.

Therefore, I encourage all players to unite and stand for the stripper pole. The pole is not only a symbol of freedom but an excellent example that empowers women everywhere. I will continue to engage in open dialogue with the players on these matters. I also hope as a nation we can unite and educate ourselves and remain positive to everyone’s opinions regarding this sensitive issue.

God Bless,

Roger Goodell