The NFL has drifted away from the game fans love. Under Roger Goodell’s leadership, the league has repeatedly pushed political and ideological messages into a space that millions of people rely on for entertainment, escape, and unity. Fans tune in for football — not lectures, not activism, and not the commissioner’s personal viewpoints. This petition calls for new leadership that respects the sport and the people who support it.

1. The league mishandled the Kaepernick controversy

Goodell’s shifting positions created years of division. Instead of calming the situation, the league’s inconsistent approach pushed fans on both sides away from the game.

2. The NFL began allowing political messages on uniforms and fields

For decades, the NFL banned personal or political statements on equipment. Under Goodell, that changed. Helmet slogans, end‑zone messages, and added pre‑game ceremonies turned football into a platform for activism rather than a neutral sporting event.

3. Entertainment and presentation choices have become disconnected from the fan base

From anthem changes to halftime decisions, the league continues to make choices that feel out of touch with what most fans want: a focus on football, not messaging.

Ratings declines during politically charged seasons

• NBC’s Thursday & Sunday Night Football ratings dropped 12% in 2020.

• ESPN’s Monday Night Football dropped 17% the same year.

• CBS regional games dropped 12% in Week 1 of 2020.

Source: Sports Business Journal, Deadline, Variety.

Survey data showing fans tuned out because of politics

A national SurveyMonkey/OZY poll of 1,700+ adults found:

• 32% of viewers who stopped watching did so because of kneeling/political protests.

• 22% of viewers who supported kneeling also stopped watching — meaning both sides were alienated.

• 12% stopped watching specifically to support Kaepernick.

Source: OZY/SurveyMonkey National Poll.

Continued political messaging under Goodell

• The NFL is entering its sixth straight season of end‑zone slogans such as “End Racism.”

• Helmet slogans like “Stop Hate,” “Black Lives Matter,” and “Say Their Stories” remain league‑approved.

Source: OutKick, NFL Communications releases.

These numbers show a clear pattern: Goodell’s decisions have repeatedly pushed fans away and damaged the league’s connection to its audience.

Football should bring people together. It should be a break from politics, not another battleground for them. The NFL needs leadership that protects the integrity of the sport and listens to the fans who built it. For the good of the game, we call for Roger Goodell to step down as commissioner.