The NFL has taken a lot of criticism through the years for a lack of minority assistants getting head coaching opportunities. But after four of the first six head coaching vacancies were filled by minority candidates, even some of its staunchest critics on this issue have appeared impressed.
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith, however, is not as encouraged.
Taking to X, Smith clarified a recent quote where he asked why we were still talking about the issue. He asserted that “true equality” means the end of the conversation in its entirety and that the equal opportunity for coaches is currently not there.
“To clarify – I’m not moved or encouraged by a few more minorities having jobs that they are more than qualified for.. true equality means that the conversation is no longer being had, based on the fact that we are all being given equal opportunity (which we are not).”
To clarify – I’m not moved or encouraged by a few more minorities having jobs that they are more than qualified for.. true equality means that the conversation is no longer being had, based on the fact that we are all being given equal opportunity (which we are not). https://t.co/CwPqt3dcE0
— Geno (@GenoSmith3) January 26, 2024
Right now around a quarter of the league’s head coaches come from a minority background, which some have noted is the highest number in league history. And that’s with two head coaching vacancies left to fill.
Even so, it’s hard to know what the number would have to look like in order to quantify “true equality” the way Smith envisions it.