PHOENIX — Dan Snyder’s NFL future as owner of the Washington Commanders remains on hold as his peers gather at a swanky resort for the league’s annual meetings and await news on the potential sale of the ‘team.
A discussion about Snyder is not on the official agenda this week, three people familiar with the details told The Associated Press on Monday. Still, Snyder was a hot topic of conversation despite his absence and even though quarterback Lamar Jackson trade request dominated the headlines.
“I think he put the team up for sale. I believe something is about to happen,” said New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft. “I’m not sure of it. We will wait and see what happens.
Canadian billionaire Steve Apostolopoulos recently joined groups led by Josh Harris and Tilman Fertitta to bid on the purchase of commanders. Once Snyder accepts an offer, he must submit the bidder’s name to the NFL for approval. That hasn’t happened yet, one person told the AP.
Last fall, with multiple investigations underway into the team’s workplace culture, finances and Snyder himself, he and his wife Tanya hired a firm to “consider possible transactions.” . Tanya continues to represent the team at league events.
Jim Irsay, owner of the Indianapolis Colts Snyder said there was “some merit to be taken” as the owner of Commanders. That would require an unprecedented vote from 24 of the other 31 team owners.
Snyder and his lawyers have demanded that NFL owners and the league indemnify him against future legal liabilities and costs if he sells the team, a person told the AP. Two owners said they were angered by Snyder’s compensation request but told the AP they wanted to let the sales process play out before taking action.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said Snyder’s situation changed their relationship.
“I think it’s a little more formal, but I think it’s that way because of the various issues that are involved here,” Jones said. “It’s not lovey-dovey, but it’s not really tense.”
Snyder and the team remain under investigation by former U.S. Attorney Mary Jo White, who was retained by the league to examine various aspects of the organization stemming from a congressional review of improper workplace conduct that also included a referral to the Federal Trade Commission for possible business improprieties.
A spokesperson declined to comment when asked whether Snyder declined to speak with White, saying it was a confidential matter between the club and the league.
Snyder faces other civil suits and investigations.
The District of Columbia attorney general filed two civil lawsuits against the commanders late last year: one for a project to cheating fans out of ticket money and another appoint Snyder, commissioner Roger Goodell and the league, claiming they colluded to mislead fans about an investigation into the team’s work culture that resulted in a $10 million fine and no written report. The commanders settled with the state of Maryland, agreeing to return security deposits to former season ticket holders and pay a $250,000 penalty.
An investigation by the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Oversight and Reform, launched in October 2021 and including testimony from Snyder, Goodell and many others, said the team fostered a toxic work culture .
Other news from Monday’s meetings includes:
COALITION TO SAVE LIVES
The NFL launched the Smart Heart Sports Coalition, a collaboration among various organizations that advocate for the adoption of evidence-based policies that will prevent the deadly consequences of sudden cardiac arrest among high school students.
“The NFL has a history of stepping up on tough issues,” said league executive Anna Isaacson. “Damar Hamlin’s life was saved. We want to save more lives.
The coalition includes the NFL, NBA, MLB, MLS, NHL, NCAA, American Heart Association, American Red Cross, Korey Stringer Institute, National Athletic Trainers’ Association and Chasing M’s Foundation of Damar Hamlin.
League Director Jeff Miller said it is critical that schools have policies in place to effectively provide CPR and have immediate access to AEDs.
“If a school has an emergency action plan, has someone trained in CPR, and has access to an AED, many of the most tragic situations that unfortunately occur can be avoided.”
FUTURE HOSTS
League chief Peter O’Reilly said voting on host cities for the 2026 Super Bowl and 2025 NFL Draft would not take place this week. O’Reilly said this topic will likely be on the agenda for the May meetings.
Las Vegas will host the Super Bowl next year and New Orleans will host the next one. Kansas City will host the NFL Draft next month and Detroit will host it next year.
PRO-BOWL GAMES
O’Reilly said the reimagined Pro Bowl with a week of activities and competitions capped by flag football is here to stay. He said 100% of players surveyed were in favor of the new format. ___
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