Before NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell could even make his way into the NFL’s Douglas Park Clean Up event on Wednesday, he was surrounded by a group of students from Collins Academy.
“I can’t wait to shake your hand on draft night one day sir,” one young man said.
“I’m going to be the first-round pick for the Chicago Bears,” another told him as he shook his hand.
Goodell joined Mayor Lori Lightfoot to greet volunteers at the park in the North Lawndale community. Work included spreading mulch, picking up trash, planting along the lagoon and fixing up the playground.
“When we were talking about where we wanted to start our 100th season, Chicago came right to the top of the list,” Goodell said. “The game is certainly a big part of it but it’s really coming back into the community and doing something great for the community that will last well beyond the game.”
On top helping spruce up the park, Goodell and Lightfoot surprised Chicago activist and founder of Kids Off the Block Diane Latiker with tickets to Super Bowl LIV.
In total, 300 volunteers were at the park, including Hall of Fame members Orlando Pace and John Randle.
Before they spread out to get to work, Lightfoot left everyone with one parting message.
“I know I’m biased,” Lightfoot said. “That’s OK, I don’t care, but there’s no better way to kick off the 100th anniversary of the NFL season and the great Chicago Bears than right here in Douglas Park.”
