A large part of the NFL Draft coverage — mainly during the first round — is focused on the commissioner. Not only is Roger Goodell there to announce the picks, but he’s also there to commemorate the moment with the prospects in attendance, who will undoubtedly want to give him a bear hug if they hear their name called in Detroit on Thursday.
But any prospect looking to celebrate their name being called by lifting Goodell off his feet is out of luck. That’s because Goodell, who took over as the league’s commissioner in 2006, is recovering from recent back surgery, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Goodell, who underwent the surgery three weeks ago, is said to be recovering well, but it’s unclear if he can participate in his customary greeting.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell underwent back surgery three weeks ago, has recovered well, but it remains uncertain whether he will be able to offer his patented draft-day hugs. Draft-time decision. pic.twitter.com/est2W3CXQT
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 25, 2024
That surely will be tested once Caleb Williams, who is expected to be announced as the first overall pick in Thursday’s Draft, has his name called by the commissioner.
If you can recall, this won’t be the first time hugs have been absent from the NFL Draft. In 2020, due to COVID-19 precautions, the virtual draft saw Goodell announce picks from his basement with no player interactions.
One would imagine that Goodell’s doctors have advised against moments like the ones below come Thursday night.
— no context college football (@nocontextcfb) April 28, 2023
The moment Christian Wilkins became a Miami Dolphin.
🏈 NFL Draft April 25-27
📺 @ABCNetwork @ESPN @NFLNetwork pic.twitter.com/l6031foLW9— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) April 26, 2019
However, it is anyone’s guess whether the prospects in attendance know about Goodell’s condition. And whether they’ll even remember amidst one of their life’s most significant moments remains to be seen.
[Adam Schefter on X]
