More On: adam schefter
Adam Schefter reaches NFL Draft 2020 breaking point: ‘Carnage in the streets’
Adam Schefter tipped off Tom Brady split with incredulous scoop
This is news ESPN doesn’t want Adam Schefter generating. With the NFL Draft 2020 still scheduled to be held — shifted from Las Vegas to a virtual experience due to the coronavirus pandemic — a little more than three weeks after the federal government announced projections of 100,000 to 240,000 deaths from the disease, the …
This is news ESPN doesn’t want Adam Schefter generating.
With the NFL Draft 2020 still scheduled to be held — shifted from Las Vegas to a virtual experience due to the coronavirus pandemic — a little more than three weeks after the federal government announced projections of 100,000 to 240,000 deaths from the disease, the broadcast behemoth’s most recognizable reporter ripped the league for not postponing the event.
ESPN is scheduled to broadcast the draft, during which Schefter is annually featured.
“The draft is happening only through the sheer force and determination and lack of foresight from the NFL, frankly,” Schefter said on ESPN during Scott Van Pelt’s “SportsCenter.” “They are determined to put this on while there is carnage in the streets!”
Schefter, who has been with ESPN since 2008, noted the absurdity of holding the draft, given the uncertainty around when — or if — the season will begin.
“We all want to see the days where we have that distraction of football, but OTAs, that’s not happening,” Schefter said. “The offseason program, that’s not happening.”
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has tried to stymie team officials from venting frustration over the draft timing, sending out a memo last week that stated, “Public discussion of issues relating to the Draft serves no useful purpose and is grounds for disciplinary action.” That obviously does not extend to Schefter.
Former ESPN reporter Darren Rovell posted the clip of his ex-colleague, commending Schefter for speaking out against his longtime employer. Schefter signed a five-year extension with ESPN in late 2016.
“It’s challenging as a journalist to bite the hand that feeds you, but there comes a time when you must make that statement. That day came today for @AdamSchefter,” Rovell wrote.
