Why Not ? By Marcus Coleman



ALONZO HIGHSMITH

Why Not ?

Written By: Marcus Coleman
02-04-2011

I’m sure many of you that listen to 1560 the game in Houston, heard my rant of how insulting and fabricated the Rooney Rule is. Although considered an honor, if I were Mr. Rooney I would think about having my name removed simply because the rule is used as more of a loop-hole than its actual meaning. With that being said, I’d like to congratulate Alonzo HighSmith on being named NFL Scout of The Year. Alonzo has an ample amount of experience, being that he’s scouted for the Green Bay Packers a number of years and also had a 6 year NFL career as well. So why aren’t there more African-American GM’s in the NFL ? Obviously we are very capable to handle not only the business side, of the game, but the talent evaluation as well, See Ozzie Newsome, Jerry Reese, and Mickey Loomis, Rick Smith doesn’t count, yet. Even though that shows improvement, I am still confused at why more African- American players are not considered for higher positions.

I’m somewhat of a conspiracy theorist, so my opinion may not be in line with others. However, there is always an element of truth to conspiracies. Is it possible that an element of, not racism, but prejudice to former African-American players exists when the General Manager position is concerned? There are many assistant coaches, a small number of head coaches, and plenty of scouts that are black. Based on the accomplishments of these men, it’s not too far-fetched to say that if put in the GM position or a higher position of authority, they would not flourish. I am starting to think the gentlemen in upper management, are in some aspect defiant of the possible success that could occur. I was told this by a scout who is black, “it will be a long time before we see more black GM’s or black VP’s, etc because we played the game, know the game, know what it takes win, judge players by their play and not merely numbers, so our credibility is much higher than others. These people keep African-Americans in certain positions and will not allow us to move up because they know the owners and others will listen and their jobs are threatened.” This is coming from someone on the inside ! So it’s very believable and somewhat validated by how long the process has taken.

In my opinion, this area needs to be addressed along with the head coaching issue. I am not saying give the positions away, however make the opportunities more available. The NFL is a business, and in business companies want the best, most experienced employees in positions so the company will flourish. Why should the NFL treat it any different ? This again speaks volumes of the hypocrisy of the NFL and it’s owners. If the owners, as they claim, want to win and build successful organizations, then every avenue needs to be explored and not over looked to find the right person for the job. Regardless of color or background, every person needs to be considered especially if experienced in that particular area.

Marcus Coleman is a former National Football League Player (Jets & Texans), be sure to visit his blog regularly as he occasionally drops some inside knowledge to the questions you may have.

@Patchmc42