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The Roger Goodell hug.
It’s an iconic part of getting selected in the first round of the NFL Draft.
But this year’s first-round picks may not get to participate in the now-famed tradition.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell underwent back surgery three weeks ago, has recovered well, but it remains uncertain whether he will be able to offer his patented draft-day hugs. Draft-time decision. pic.twitter.com/est2W3CXQT
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 25, 2024
Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that Goodell recently underwent back surgery, and that it may prevent him from embracing with this year’s top picks.
Goodell’s hugs have survived through several unique circumstances. While there were no hugs at the 2020 virtual NFL Draft due to COVID, they did return in 2021.
So, how did the traditional embrace?
Doug Williams of ESPN explained it all in 2023.
“When Goodell began presiding over the draft in 2007, No. 1 overall pick JaMarcus Russell got a handshake and a quick, one-armed, lean-in grab. Same with No. 2 choice Calvin Johnson.
Through the drafts of 2008 and ’09, Goodell went with the flow, offering hugs and half-hugs to some, handshakes to others. No. 1 overall pick Matthew Stafford of the Lions in 2009 got just a handshake and a pat on the shoulder.”
“In 2010, however, Goodell got his hug on. After Sam Bradford went No. 1 (back pat, slight hug) and Ndamukong Suh No. 2 (handshake, arm pat), the Buccaneers selected Gerald McCoy from Oklahoma.
As McCoy strolled across the stage toward Goodell, the commissioner extended his hand for a shake. But the grinning, 6-foot-4, 300-pound McCoy spread his arms wide, ignoring the hand, and enveloped Goodell in a hug that lasted six seconds.”
Goodell allegedly told McCoy “you’re crushing me now” during the embrace.
But the rest was history.
Ever since, Goodell has been offering up bro hugs and hearty embraces to all who want them.
This year, however, that tradition is at risk. Goodell’s recovery could keep him from continuing one of the draft’s best running bits. And given the depth of first-round talent on the offensive line, that’s probably a smart choice.