NFL Finds No 'Specific Violations' In Questioning At Combine
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- The NFL found no "specific violations" in questions teams asked college players at February's scouting combine.
Colorado tight end Nick Kasa and other players said they were asked about their sexual orientation, but did not identify by which teams or what questions they asked. The NFL's investigation found no such improper questioning.
"Our review has not established any specific violations," NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said Thursday, "but we have made it clear to our clubs what is acceptable when interviewing potential players and other job candidates."
The issue was discussed at last month's owners meetings and Commissioner Roger Goodell said that if such questions were asked, "that's unacceptable."
"We will do things the right way," Goodell said then. "We will give them that education and that training. I hope that will solve the problem."
Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson and Michigan State running back Le'Veon Bell also said they were asked about their sexual orientation during an informal period at the combine when the players met with most of the 32 clubs.
Although no teams were found to have broken from league policies, the NFL would take action if it receives new information establishing a violation was committed.
Last month, New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman urged the league to investigate the alleged questioning, which he said would be illegal in New York. Discrimination based on sexual orientation is illegal in New York and in at least 23 other states where the NFL's 32 teams are based.
In February, Baltimore Ravens star Terrell Suggs told WFAN radio, "That's pretty much an inappropriate question to ask a kid."
"Some locker rooms are different, I only can speak for my own," Suggs said on the "Boomer & Carton" show. "No, I don't think (an openly gay player) would have a tough time in our locker room. We have a really laid-back, chill locker room, and we welcome everybody. We accept everybody for who they are."
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