Former NFL Media columnist Jim Trotter has joined The Athletic, the company announced.
Trotter exited NFL Network and NFL.com last month as the organization cut several positions from its staff. His departure coincided with Trotter questioning NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell about the lack of diversity in executive roles in the league’s newsroom. Trotter repeatedly reiterated that he didn’t view questioning Goodell as an “attack”, but an attempt at holding the Commissioner accountable after he said the league would have a better track record of hiring more diverse candidates in the league’s media organization.
After exiting NFL Media, Trotter claims he declined a three-month severance package that would have required him to sign an NDA.
“I’m honored and humbled by the opportunity to work with such a talented staff, and I’m excited about having the freedom and support to go where the news leads me,” Trotter said.
The New York Times — the owner of The Athletic — says Trotter will work for the digital publication’s “new opinion desk and report to Deputy Managing Editor Jorge Rojas”. He will continue to cover the NFL, while also writing columns on other sports.
“We are really excited to bring Jim on board,” said The Athletic’s Executive Editor Steven Ginsberg. “Jim has a deep understanding of the NFL and the issues that resonate in the world of sports, an extensive source network, and an innate sense for a great story. He will be a powerful new voice for The Athletic that will continue to make our coverage stand apart.”
Trotter’s first day with The Athletic will be Monday, May 8th.
