“I’m thankful.” … “I’m just here, so I won’t get fined.” … “Thanks for asking.”
These are the wise words of Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch.
His repetitive utterances during interviews have struck a chord with fans and analysts all throughout America.
And although Lynch’s skills with the pigskin are a big reason why the Seahawks are headed back to the Super Bowl, he has gained more attention for his lack of cooperation with media members.
As I watched Lynch’s interviews on multiple websites and major news channels, I came to the conclusion that maybe the media should just leave him alone at this point. No?
As my deep-felt opinion dawned on me, I reflected back to the times I was in the Buccaneers’, Ravens’ and Saints’ locker rooms, conducting post-game interviews. There is no privacy in those locker rooms. You have free range to ask and talk to any player you please, with the understanding that you stay professional.
And it seems to me, somehow, that in the weeks leading up to the Super Bowl, that connection and understanding has been lost on those seeking answers from Lynch.
In no way am I condoning his actions or his behavior toward the media. I completely understand the NFL’s policy for postgame interviews and press conferences and I understand the reasoning for implementing fines.
Many of these reporters need to turn in four to six articles daily, so gaining information from various players is needed for the possibility of different angles on stories.
But as I watched Lynch respond with “I’m just here, so I won’t get fined,” 29 times on Media Day last week, it wasn’t funny anymore. What’s meant to be a fun and enjoyable day for most, showed a lack of respect for a player by the media.
As he abided by NFL policy # he showed up, talked and was technically available to the media # people continued asking questions, knowing the response. Now, for the first five questions, I get it. Maybe he would give in. But he didn’t, and 24 more times reporters asked him questions knowing the response.
Why? Why continue to ask, knowing you are egging him on?
Despite this player’s pompous behavior, the media members should have been professional and seeked answers elsewhere, instead of turning every Lynch interview into a circus.
You do not need the star running back for quotes when writing a story about that athlete. You just don’t. It’s nice and makes the article better, but it’s possible to work around that.
At USF, head coach Willie Taggart has a “no freshman” rule for the media. He does not like the idea of young kids being swarmed by media members for whatever reason.
As freshman RB Marlon Mack broke a school record and tied the conference record with 275 yards in a game, most of the stories focused on him. But how many quoted him for their story?
None.
Instead, reporters sought answers from other members of the team, such as the head coach and quarterback.
It’s doable. And the story can still be great; just go elsewhere.
I’m sure if there were two or three reporters around him asking questions, Lynch would open up more, as he has in various commercials and in previous interviews. However, that’s not how the rules are set up. But just because the rules permit something, doesn’t mean you should exploit it.
Some reporters should just remember that it’s human nature to not want to talk at times, especially after a loss or poor performance. They should take that into consideration, instead of seeking a show.
