The Possible Extinction of Foul Language
The NFL is starting to turn over a new leaf, and that leaf is going to be free of expletives, specifically the N-word.
The Fritz Pollard Alliance is on a mission -- one of many to come, apparently -- to completely eliminate the usage of that word, which in my opinion, is long overdue. Unfortunately, the NFL is marred with foul language, and the N-word, controversial as it may be, has become a part of the NFL locker room culture. Its usage, depending on the context, can be either friendly or derogatory, but the NFL could possibly be implementing a black-&-white policy regarding this word. No pun intended.
The overall message: Don't use it!
If this rule is passed offenders do decide to use the word, a 15-yard penalty would be enforced, and if a player decides to defiantly use the word again, an ejection would be issued.
With an abundance of microphones, especially in this digital age, officials would have no issue identifying the offender as well as verifying what word was used.
Other slurs were discussed too, specifically homophobic slurs. This certainly doesn't surprise me, given the negative publicity that's been circulating around the Miami Dolphins organization. After the whole Richie Incognito/Jonathan Martin fiasco, the Dolphins as well as the NFL needed to clean up their overall image and this is definitely a step in the right direction.
These issues will be discussed further at the owner's meeting in March.
Honestly, I'm proud of the NFL for stepping in and being proactive about this ongoing problem. The foul language has gotten out of hand and the NFL needed to take corrective action.
Sure, I use foul language, too, but I absolutely understand how unncessary it is. Adults, especially public figures, are held to a higher standard and consequently, should be aware that their actions -- specifically their words -- can be hurtful as well as offensive even if they aren't intended to be. You can be just as intimidating on the field without the expletives.
If implemented, an adjustment period will take place. Removing such vulgarity can be difficult to do overnight but in due time, the language will ultimately improve, especially if coaches are penalizing you with extra drills and monetary fines post-game for costing your team 15-yards.
Remember the kind words that your grandmother taught you. "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all."
Who knows? Maybe each team should have a designated grandmother on the coaching staff to keep things real.