The viewers aren't the only ones angry about the NFL protests. Now brands adversing at NBC are issuing an ultimatum to NBC: quit covering the player protests or our ads are gone.
Linda Yaccarino is the chairwoman of advertising at NBCUniversal. She is who shared this cut and dry message during an interview Friday in New York that was hosted by ad agency R/GA, per Business Insider.
“Marketers have said, 'We will not be part of the NFL if you continue covering it,'” Yaccarino said, while noting that while no advertisers have pulled their ads yet that could change very soon.
“The story has morphed dramatically,” Yaccarino added.
Per IJR.com:
The NBCUniversal executive's revelation comes as NFL ratings have continued to plummet ever since President Donald Trump criticized players who are taking a knee during “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Polls, for what they're worth, have consistently shown a majority of Americans side with the president on the issue. In September, nearly two-thirds of Americans — 64 percent — believe athletes should stand during the national anthem.
And Papa John's recently said it is “disappointed the NFL and its leadership did not resolve” the controversy over players' protest during the patriotic ceremony. Papa John's founder and CEO John Schnatter said the protest has hurt the restaurant chain's sales.
Moving forward, Yaccarino said, marketers — again, much like the viewers — want more focus on the games and less attention given to the protests.
The craziest thing about this is that the NFL seems totally oblivious to it. Sure some owners, such as Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, are aware this is going to hurt their bottom line, but many others are taking no action and allowing their players to disrespect the United States and our flag.
Will the NFL take action at this point? Or is too late?
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