Roger Goodell: NFL’s relationship with Jay-Z, Roc Nation is “not changing”

The NFL didn’t respond to a Sunday request for comment from PFT about the lawsuit filed against Jay-Z. On Wednesday, unnamed sources told the AP that the relationship with Roc Nation, owned by Jay-Z, would not be impacted by the civil claim that he had raped a 13-year-old girl more than 20 years ago.

In the usual press conference that Commissioner Roger Goodell conducts following an ownership meeting, he was asked whether he had any comment on the situation.

“I don’t,” Goodell said. “We’re aware of the civil allegations and Jay Z’s strong response to that. We know about two litigations happening now. But from our standpoint, our relationship is not changing with him, including our preparations for the next Super Bowl.”

Among other things, Roc Nation produces the halftime show at the Super Bowl.

“I think they’re getting incredibly comfortable not with just the Super Bowl but other events they advise us on and help us on,” Goodell added, regarding Roc Nation. “They’ve been helpful with social justice area with us on many occasions. They’ve been great partners and they’ve provided a lot of value for us.”

That’s fine, but the allegations are concerning. Even with Jay-Z reacting aggressively to the litigation — strongly denying the allegations and suing the lawyer who filed the case — the civil claim alleging rape of a minor is active.

While it’s rarely prudent to take significant action in response to allegations contained in a civil lawsuit, allegations in a civil lawsuit filed against Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson in September prompted a formal league investigation. Although Jay-Z isn’t an employee of the league, he owns and operates a league partner. Some would perceive a potential double standard, where players receive one type of treatment, and where individuals tied to management and ownership receive another.

Again, these are only civil allegations. But civil allegations were enough to activate the league’s investigative machinery as to Watson. The civil claims against Jay-Z would presumably prompt a similar review if they were made against any player.

Regardless of how the legal process shakes out, it’s fair to wonder why there’s a difference.