James Harrison Slams Roger Goodell

Added on Jul 13, 2011 by Scott in

NFL

Steelers linebacker James Harrison’s crusade to become the most fined player in the history of the NFL hasn’t been deterred by the lockout. In the upcoming edition of Men’s Journal, the verbose quarterback killa had some unflattering words for former and current players and league executives. However, he reserved his harshest comments for Commissioner Roger Goodell.

Harrison’s dislike of Goodell stems from what he believes are unfair fines levied for late and/or excessive hits. When asked what he thought of the Commish, Harrison didn’t pull any punches.

“If that man was on fire and I had to piss to put him out, I wouldn’t do it,” Harrison told the magazine. “I hate him and will never respect him.”

No reason to read between the lines here. Obviously Harrison isn’t very fond of subtlety. He also referred to the league’s grand poobah as a “puppet” and a “dictator.” Well, which is it, James? Is Roger being manipulated or the one doing the manipulating? Someone get Harrison a dictionary.

Steelers president Art Rooney has yet to read the article and said he would deal with the issue after the labor strife has been resolved. Of course, Rooney is no stranger to public relations nightmares in Steel City. Ben Roethlisberger’s recent problems with the ladies and Rashard Mendenhall tweeting about Bin Laden’s death have kept Rooney busy performing damage control.

If this was anyone other than Harrison, they might get off with a stern warning. Considering his checkered past, it seems like a given that he’ll be docked some coin. Although, Goodell has to know absorbing criticism comes with the job. If he can’t take the insults, especially during a six-month long lockout, then maybe Harrison is right to suggest he “quit and do something else.”

When he wasn’t roasting the Commish, Harrison took time to offer a solution to reducing the number of concussions: shorten training camps and cut the regular season to 14 games. Yeah, owners would love that. Be glad Harrison isn’t representing the players at the negotiating table. If he was, we wouldn’t have football until 2015.

Source: NFL.com