Ken Belson

In this discussion, Ken Belson, an N.F.L. reporter for The New York Times, joins civil rights lawyer Cyrus Mehri, who co-created the Rooney Rule. They dive into Brian Flores's groundbreaking lawsuit alleging racial discrimination in coaching hires. The conversation reveals the systemic racism in the league and critiques the effectiveness of the Rooney Rule. Mehri emphasizes the need for stronger enforcement and real change, shedding light on the ongoing challenges black coaches face in a sport grappling with diversity issues.

Ken Belson, a New York Times sports reporter and author, joins the conversation to reveal the NFL's transformation into a cultural titan. He discusses the unique elements that make football a TV powerhouse and the impact of celebrity fans on its viewership. Annemarie Conte from Wirecutter shares insights on Black Friday shopping, detailing how they sift through countless deals to find genuine bargains. She also highlights shifting strategies and categories for this year's sales amidst economic challenges.

Ken Belson, a longtime sports business reporter for The New York Times and author of Every Day Is Sunday, dives into the NFL's incredible journey to cultural and economic dominance. He discusses the transformative impact of Rupert Murdoch's Fox deal and Roger Goodell's media-first strategy. Topics include the NFL's cautious embrace of private equity, challenges from expanded gambling, and the implications of college NIL on player leverage. Belson also highlights the risks of declining youth participation and explores the owners’ innovative revenue models beyond game days.