The NFL is taking over the investigation into alleged workplace issues against the Washington Football Team reported by the Washington Post, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell informed Washington owner Dan Snyder. Rapoport noted Snyder was supportive of the league’s decision.
In July, Washington hired high-profile attorney Beth Wilkinson to conduct an independent review of the organization’s protocols and past culture. It was later revealed the hiring of Wilkinson was done at the suggestion of the league office. Now, the league is taking over the investigation as Wilkinson will report her findings to the NFL and not Snyder.
The Washington Post’s first of two reports surfaced in July, suggesting workplace misconduct that included sexual harassment claims from 15 women against a number of organization officials. The first report led to the firing of executives Alex Santos and Richard Mann II as well as the abrupt retirement of lead broadcast voice Larry Michael.
A second Washington Post report in August provided additional allegations, implicating Snyder of knowledge and involvement of workplace misconduct. Snyder responded by calling the Post’s report(s) a “hit job” from “questionable and unnamed sources.”
The team then released a statement contradicting Snyder’s claims, encouraging others who had experience similar harassment or misconduct to come forward.
Many will speculate if the league’s new involvement could lead Snyder being forced to sell the Washington Football Team. That remains to be seen. But, the NFL’s involvement answers calls from several accusers’ attorney for the league to do so.
