The NFL Players Association recently released its second edition of team report cards, which anonymously asks players across the league to provide feedback on their team’s working conditions. The survey includes everything from the weight room to how players’ families are treated on game days. This year’s survey received feedback from 1,706 players, representing a response rate of over 77%, a significant increase from the previous year’s 60%. The goal of the survey is to not only highlight positives but also identify areas for improvement and educate its members. However, some team owners have chosen to dismiss the report rather than take it seriously.
Pittsburgh Steelers owner Art Rooney II is one of the owners who do not appear to value the survey results. The Steelers ranked 28th out of 32 teams in this year’s report card, and Rooney questioned the NFLPA’s motivation for conducting the report, suggesting it is more of a media opportunity for the Players Association rather than constructive criticism. Instead of taking the report card seriously, Rooney stated he prefers to receive feedback directly from the players. The survey results showed that the Steelers players gave low grades for how their families were treated, the team’s nutritionist/dietician, travel conditions, and the locker room, but head coach Mike Tomlin received high marks.
The survey results revealed that the Steelers players gave their family treatment and nutritionist/dietician a failing grade, while their travel environment and locker room conditions also received low marks. Despite these negative ratings, head coach Mike Tomlin received an A rating from the players. Last year, the locker room received a C grade, family treatment received a D-, and travel conditions received a B rating. The Patriots, Chargers, Chiefs, and Commanders were all ranked lower than the Steelers on the report card. The survey was conducted from August 26 to November 16 and included feedback from a significant portion of players across the league.
Overall, the NFLPA team report cards aim to provide valuable feedback for teams to improve working conditions and address areas of concern. While some team owners may dismiss the results, the feedback from players is crucial in ensuring a positive environment for all members of the team. The survey results highlight areas where teams can make improvements, such as family treatment, nutrition, travel conditions, and locker room facilities. Despite receiving low grades in some categories, the Steelers players expressed satisfaction with head coach Mike Tomlin, who received high marks. The survey serves as a tool for teams to listen to player feedback and make necessary changes for the betterment of the organization.
