NFL Roger Goodell faces questions on Giants owner’s Epstein emails.

Goodell’s Response at Pre-Super Bowl Press Conference

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell faced questions during his pre-Super Bowl LX press conference about potentially investigating New York Giants co-owner Steve Tisch for his email exchanges with Jeffrey Epstein. Goodell emphasized that the league would examine all facts and context before taking any action, stating they would assess how the situation aligns with the NFL’s personal conduct policy. He noted the recent release of over 3 million documents related to Epstein and said the league would decide on an investigation based on emerging details. When asked about broader concerns for the league’s image, Goodell affirmed the importance of their policies in addressing such matters.

Details of Tisch-Epstein Email Exchanges

The emails, part of a Justice Department document dump, revealed discussions between Tisch and Epstein about women. In one April 2013 exchange, Tisch inquired if an unnamed woman was “pro or civilian,” with Epstein responding that she was interested in meeting but concerned about the age difference. Another June 2013 thread showed them arranging a potential New York meeting. These correspondences came to light amid Epstein’s history as a convicted sex offender and human trafficker, who died by suicide in jail in 2019 while facing charges that could have resulted in up to 45 years in prison.

NFL and Tisch Statements on the Matter

The NFL issued a statement acknowledging the reports and Tisch’s response, indicating that their office would review the facts. Tisch, through the Giants, addressed the emails by describing their association as brief and limited to topics like adult women, movies, philanthropy, and investments. He expressed deep regret for any connection to Epstein, noting he never accepted invitations or visited Epstein’s island, and condemned Epstein as a terrible person.

Background on Tisch and Giants Ownership

Steve Tisch’s family holds about 45% ownership of the New York Giants, with Tisch taking control in 2005 after his father’s 1991 purchase of a majority stake. The scandal has prompted scrutiny of potential links between other NFL owners and Epstein, though Goodell indicated the league would monitor facts as they unfold without preemptively opening probes. This situation underscores the NFL’s approach to personal conduct issues amid high-profile controversies.