Fans who want Jay-Z‘s partnership with the NFL reevaluated amid the damaging accusations against him have been answered. With less than two months away from Super Bowl LIX, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell broke his silence on the league’s relationship with Roc Nation during this challenging time.
During a press conference on Wednesday, Goodell answered the question on everyone’s mind. “We are aware of the civil allegations and Jay-Z’s really strong response to that,” he began. “We know obviously that litigation is happening now. But from our standpoint our relationship is not changing with them, including our preparations for the next Super Bowl.” Earlier this week, Jay-Z was named alongside disgraced mogul, Diddy in a civil lawsuit, accusing them of raping a 13-year-old. The anonymous plaintiff claimed in the suit, filed initially by Texas lawyer Tony Buzbee, that the pair assaulted her at an after-party for the 2000 MTV Video Music Awards while an unnamed female celebrity watched.
Despite the heavy allegations, Goodell defended the NFL’s continued partnership with Jay-Z and his company.
“I think they’re getting incredibly comfortable, not just with the Super Bowl, but other events they’ve advised us on and helped us with. It’s been helpful in the social justice area to us on many ocassions. They’ve been great partners that have provided a lot of value to us.”
Roc Nation and the NFL entered into a partnership in 2019, with the company advising on artist selection for major NFL events. In September, Kendrick Lamar was announced as the headliner for the Apple Music halftime show at Super Bowl LIX. The decision sparked controversy, with fans complaining about Lil Wayne being snubbed. Also, Beyoncé will take the stage on Christmas Day at the halftime of the Houston Texans vs. Baltimore Ravens game. The event will be live-streamed by Netflix.
Fans Have Mixed Reactions About Jay-Z’s Continued Partnership With NFL
Following Goodell’s public support of Jay-Z, fans online are sharing their thoughts. Some have applauded the league for respecting the process and waiting until he is proven guilty. However, others believe there is some bias because of Jay-Z and Beyoncé’s power and influence.
“If this were anybody else, they would cut ties within hours,” slammed one disappointed fan.
“If he did it or not…. Doubling down on his stance for your company the WEEK OF the lawsuit is nasty asf. I truly pray for the victims,” another fan wrote.
“Allegations or not, business rolls on. Shows how power protects power. Interesting move by Goodell. Not surprising, but definitely raises eyebrows,” a third comment read.
“I mean, what else would he say? Serious allegations, but rn they’re just that, and it’s in litigation, so with the presumption of innocence, you just gotta let it play out,” a fourth fan defended Goodell.
Jay-Z has since maintained his innocence, denying the allegations in a scathing statement released via ROC Nation. He described the accusations as “so heinous,” noting that Buzbee previously tried a “blackmail attempt” on him. The 99 Problems rapper vowed to expose the famous attorney for being a fraud while expressing heartbreak for his family dealing with the news.
