Roger Goodell’s Hugs Remain a Draft Highlight Despite Back Surgery

GREEN BAY, Wis. — NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has become synonymous with celebratory hugs during the NFL draft, a tradition that began 15 years ago. Despite undergoing back surgery last year, Goodell continues to embrace first-round picks this year, showcasing enthusiasm and strength even at age 66.

“I do train for that, that’s no joke, I do,” Goodell said Wednesday, revealing that he was at the gym earlier that morning. “And to get through this weekend is physically hard.” This tradition saw him last year endure hugs that lifted him off the ground, particularly from Tennessee‘s seventh overall pick, JC Latham, who famously drew gasps from the audience.

In the past, players like Christian Wilkins and Tyree Wilson have treated Goodell to hugs that could almost lift him off his feet. Goodell mentioned an incident in 2019 when he was nearly knocked over by Wilkins, and in 2023, Wilson actually lifted him up like a child. “It didn’t hurt and I’m OK so it was a good moment,” Goodell recalled of Latham’s enthusiastic embrace.

Goodell, who replaced Paul Tagliabue as commissioner in 2006, reminisced about his first hug with Gerald McCoy. The defensive tackle shared a heartfelt moment after being picked third overall by Tampa Bay in 2010. “He pulled me aside at the end and he said: ‘You know I lost my mother.’ And when he came out, I thought he was going to kill me. He’s a big guy and it was all emotion,” Goodell recalled.

Goodell described that moment as the spark that ignited the tradition, with players now often treating their draft moment as an emotional milestone. “Sometimes these guys get the best of me. They’re big, and they’re strong, and it is an emotional time,” he said. Even with his physical challenges, Goodell expressed joy in being a part of this significant moment for the players.

After his recent one-year check-up following back surgery, Goodell is cleared and ready for more hugs at the NFL draft, continuing a heartwarming tradition.