List of organizational conflicts in the NFL

List of Organizational Conflicts in the NFL details the various internal disputes and disagreements that have occurred within National Football League (NFL) teams. These conflicts can involve players, coaches, management, and owners, and often impact team performance and dynamics. The NFL, being a high-profile professional sports league, has seen its share of controversies and conflicts that have made headlines.

Types of Conflicts

Organizational conflicts in the NFL can be categorized into several types:

• Player vs. Management: Disputes often arise over contract negotiations, player trades, and disciplinary actions.
• Coach vs. Player: Conflicts may occur due to disagreements on team strategy, playing time, or personal issues.
• Management vs. Coach: These conflicts generally involve disagreements over team management, hiring decisions, or performance expectations.
• Owner vs. Management: Disputes between team owners and front office staff can arise over the direction of the team, financial decisions, or other operational issues.

Notable Conflicts

Bill Parcells and Robert Kraft

One of the most famous conflicts involved coach Bill Parcells and New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft in the late 1990s. The disagreement was primarily over personnel decisions, which Parcells famously summarized with his statement, "If they want you to cook the dinner, at least they ought to let you shop for some of the groceries."

Terrell Owens and the Philadelphia Eagles

In 2005, wide receiver Terrell Owens had a well-publicized feud with the Philadelphia Eagles' management and quarterback Donovan McNabb. The conflict stemmed from contract disputes and Owens' public criticism of the team and McNabb, leading to his suspension and eventual release from the team.

Jon Gruden and Keyshawn Johnson

During the early 2000s, Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Jon Gruden and wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson had a contentious relationship. The conflict culminated in Johnson being deactivated for the latter part of the 2003 season before eventually being traded.

Impact on Teams

Organizational conflicts can have various impacts on NFL teams, including:

• Team Performance: Internal disputes can distract players and staff, leading to poor on-field performance.
• Public Relations: High-profile conflicts can damage a team's public image and fan relations.
• Financial Implications: Conflicts, especially those involving star players or coaches, can have financial repercussions due to lost revenue or contractual disputes.

Resolution and Management

NFL teams often employ various strategies to manage and resolve internal conflicts, including:

• Mediation: Teams may use mediators to help resolve disputes between players and management.
• Contractual Agreements: Clear contracts with clauses that address potential disputes can preempt conflict.
• Communication: Regular communication between players, coaches, and management can help prevent misunderstandings and grievances.

See Also

• History of the NFL
• NFL management
• NFL player conduct