Von Miller desperate to become NFL boss and ‘change things for the better’ after Brian Flores racism lawsuit
VON MILLER has ‘extra incentive’ to become an NFL general manager once his playing days are over after Brian Flores’ racism lawsuit.
The Los Angeles Rams linebacker is chasing his second Super Bowl ring having captured his first while playing for Denver Broncos six years ago.
The 32-year-old knows his playing days are drawing to a close but received added motivation this week to pursue a career in the front office.
Former Miami Dolphins coach Brian Flores rocked the NFL when he sued the league and all 32 teams for alleged racial discrimination in hiring.
There are currently just two black head coaches in the league - Pittsburgh Steelers boss Mike Tomlin and newly-appointed Houston Texans leader Lovie Smith.
And Miller said: “It’s unfortunate about the news that you hear and all the things that have come out in the last few days.
“We’re still trying to progress. It’s not perfect but we’re still trying to do the right thing.
“It’s a huge responsibility on the players to speak out.
“You’ve got 32 owners but people come to see the players in the league and the majority are black and African-American. So it’s huge for the players to speak out.
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“For me, I’ve always wanted to do things in football after my career is over with.
“And that is what gives me an extra incentive to become a GM and becoming a front office executive so I can change things for the better.”
The NFL introduced the ‘Rooney Rule’ in 2003 - named after former Pittsburgh owner Art Rooney – which forces teams to interview at least one ethnic minority candidate for top jobs.
A leaked memo from commissioner Roger Goodell to all teams this week labelled the results of diversity and inclusion as ‘unacceptable’.
And a league statement in response to Flores’ lawsuit said the NFL is committed to providing equal opportunities throughout organisations.
Rams linebacker Miller added: “I always have respect for coaches.
"But you know being a head coach and coaching these guys, it’s tough man. It’s extremely tough.
“I got all the respect in the world for all these coaches.
“I just think it’s been on my heart and my mind to chase that dream whenever I’m done.
“I’m still a long way from being done but that’s the route where I want to push things: Become a GM and really change it from the inside out.”