Public statements from NFLPA, NFL, or major sports journalism bodies

NFLPA Seeks to Protect Locker Room Sanctity, Requests Interviews Outside to Ensure Player Dignity

Oct 4, 2024, 03:53 PM

The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) has issued a statement requesting that players ask for interviews to be conducted outside of locker rooms during the week, aiming to 'protect the sanctity' and respect the 'dignity' of locker rooms across the NFL. The union cites incidents where images of undressed players have inadvertently been broadcast on television, emphasizing the need for a 'safer workplace.' Bengals player representative Ted Karras explained the new media policy, highlighting these concerns. This move has prompted discussions among players and journalists, with some reporters expressing concern that limiting locker room access would hinder relationship-building and diminish the quality of storytelling in sports journalism. The NFLPA's push to modify the media policy began during the COVID-19 pandemic when access was restricted, and some teams are now declining locker room interviews entirely. The initiative reflects ongoing efforts to balance player privacy with media access.