If he was surprised by the question, he didn’t show it.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell deftly and diplomatically handled a question about the Washington Redskins’ nickname during his annual state-of-the-league press conference today at Super Bowl XLVII in New Orleans.
The question came from Washington Post columnist Mike Wise, who asked if the nickname was a concern because many Native Americans find it offensive.
“Growing up in Washington, I do understand the affinity for that name with the fans,” Goodell said. “I also understand the other side of that. I don’t think anybody wants to offend anybody. This has been discussed several times over a long period of time. I think [Redskins owner] Dan Snyder and the organization have made it very clear that they’re proud of that heritage and that name and I believe fans are, too.”
Call that a punt.
Follow @CindyBoren on Twitter and on Facebook.
More
Mike Wise: Redskins’ nickname not hailed by all
Courtland Milloy: Bad karma from the nickname?
