Part 7/12:
High-profile scandals, such as Spygate and Deflategate, further exemplify Goodell’s uneven disciplinary record. Critics contend that these cases reveal a league prone to protecting its brand rather than delivering justice, often acting in response to PR crises rather than principle.
Decreasing TV Ratings and Public Disillusionment
TV ratings, once a primary revenue source, have declined sharply—despite brief upward spikes—reflecting growing disillusionment with league leadership. Fans cite political controversies, off-field incidents, and perceived league indifference toward social issues like CTE as reasons for turning away from Sunday football. Goodell’s perceived inaction in addressing these cultural issues compounds the loss of viewer trust.