With everyone gearing up for the start of the NFL season, I had the chance to have some watercooler discussions with co-workers of mine. One person brought up the Rodney Harrison news regarding the recent HGH-based suspension. A story in and of itself, and a definite blow to the Patriots defense - at least for four games.
This, of course, led into the suspension of Wade Wilson and how the steroid and substance-abuse policies stretch on to the coaching staffs of NFL teams. This suspension has rubbed a few people the wrong way, as it was reportedly used for health reasons - as opposed to trying to beat the system, as it was in Harrison's case.
What very few people are talking about, but I think should be held in the same light is the recent revelation by Jerome Bettis. NBC Sports reported that Bettis had admitted to lying about an injury simply so he wouldn't be cut by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He even used the words "acting" and "fooling" simply so he would be able to further his career in football. When interviewed by Jim Rome, Bettis went on to say that he would do it again if given the chance.
Bettis claims that his lying actually bettered the franchise of the Pittsburgh Steelers, and that it "worked out in the end." My question is, do the ends justify the means? Yes, Harrison may have gained an advantage by using banned substances, but Bettis in fact gained an advantage over the player that was cut so that Bettis himself could have a roster spot. Bettis also bettered his wallet, as he would have had to relinquish his salary if cut.
They're both wrong. They both knew they were wrong. While I didn't necessarily give an opinion last time I discussed the Bettis story, I've sort of come around to this belief. You may think otherwise, but just because one lie ends in a ring, it doesn't make it better than another. If Bettis was still in the NFL, are his actions punishable? To what extent? Why or why not? Because he's a good-will ambassador of the game, a lot of people are letting this slide. And this shouldn't be the case.
Patriots Harrison Suspended [ESPN]
Cowboys Coach Wade Wilson Suspended [AOL Sports]
What's Wrong With the Harrison and Wilson...? [Lion In Oil]
Bettis: I Faked Injury... [NBC Sports]
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1 comments:
The difference is that Bettis didn't lie about having an injury. He in fact was covering up the injury during the off-season because he was afraid if he mentioned it, he would be cut. But, the minute he realized he was in danger of being cut in the pre-season during camp, he let out that he had the injury.
That's the difference. Does it make it right. In strict ethics, no. But the man was trying to save his job.
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