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Coaches Slam NFL's Rooney Rule: 'All for Show'
23 Jul
Summary
- Minority coaches feel the Rooney Rule interviews are often disingenuous.
- Patrick Graham experienced disappointment during a head coaching interview process.
- Eric Bieniemy has had multiple interviews but no head coaching offers.
The NFL's Rooney Rule, intended to increase minority head coaching interviews, is facing criticism for failing to yield meaningful results. Coaches report feeling that interviews are often a formality, not a genuine consideration for the position. Patrick Graham, now with the Pittsburgh Steelers, recounted a disappointing experience during the Jacksonville Jaguars' head coaching search in early 2025, feeling the outcome was predetermined.
This sentiment is shared by others, such as Eric Bieniemy, who has been interviewed multiple times for head coaching roles but has yet to receive an offer. Coaches like Thomas Brown of the New England Patriots question the rule's effectiveness when hiring power rests with individuals not committed to finding the best candidate. He expressed a wish for the interview process to be transparent and authentic.
The core issue, according to some, is the lack of genuine intent behind the interviews. Coaches feel that teams may be checking a box to comply with the rule without a true desire to hire minority candidates. This has led to widespread disillusionment regarding the Rooney Rule's impact on career advancement for minority coaches.
