NFL Commissioner Rodger Goodell addressed the controversial NFC Championship no-call today at a press conference, saying he understands the fans’ frustrations, and that it was a “play we want to have called”. The commish noted the competition committee will consider rules changes over the summer addressing no-calls, but…
“We also know our officials are human, we also know they are officiating a game that is moving very quickly, and have to make snap decisions under difficult circumstances, and they are not going to get it right every time.”
Despite admitting it was a missed call, Goodell says he’s confident officiating in the NFL is better now than it has ever been.
“They are men and women of high integrity, so I know they are disappointed also, but they work hard to improve officiating, and I think they are doing an excellent job, but as I said, they’re human.”
Goodell noted that previous suggestions that no-calls should be challengeable have been met with significant resistance in the past, due to the complicated and unforeseen consequences of such a significant expansion of officiating oversight.
“Our coaches and clubs have been very resistant, and there has not been support to date for a replay officials, or somebody in New York throw a flag, when there is no flag.”
Saints coach Sean Payton sits on the competition committee.
