NFL's Rooney Rule Under Scrutiny as Chargers Interview Minority Candidate
Critics argue the rule can reduce minority candidates to 'check boxes', while supporters highlight its role in promoting diversity in leadership positions.
- The NFL's Rooney Rule, established in 2003, mandates that teams interview at least one minority candidate before hiring a head coach, aiming to increase diversity in leadership positions.
- Recent criticism of the rule has arisen after the Los Angeles Chargers interviewed David Shaw, a black candidate, with some arguing that the rule can reduce minority candidates to mere 'check boxes' in the hiring process.
- Despite the controversy, the Chargers' interview with Shaw made them 'Rooney Rule compliant,' allowing them to proceed with their reported intention to hire Jim Harbaugh as head coach.
- The rule has evolved over time, with current stipulations requiring teams to consider at least two minority candidates for coaching positions and one for coordinator roles.
- Additional amendments to the rule provide incentives for teams that develop minority talent that goes on to become general managers or head coaches in the form of compensatory draft picks.
Sportskeeda 
