Carolina Panthers coach Matt Rhule began his Zoom press conference call with the media today by addressing the social justice protests taking place in cities all over the country.
Rhule struck right at the heart of the matter, saying that overt racism is easy to spot but the true problem is systemic racism, which must be rooted out.
Rhule also told reporters he wants to be on the right side of history when we look back on this time.
Rhule also said he is proud of the Panthers players who have been participating in peaceful protests and helping their communities, singling out running back Reggie Bonnafon.
It’s refreshing to hear a direct take like this from an NFL coach when it would be so easy to evade the issue or offer vague platitudes. Rhule’s comments are a stark contrast to those of Denver Broncos coach Vic Fangio, who said yesterday he doesn’t see any racism or discrimination in the league.
