NFL Network’s Ian Rapaport is known for breaking any news relating to the NFL. Whether it be an injury, player transaction, coaching decision, or anything in between, Rapaport is usually one of the first to report on the matter. However, Rapaport is now facing backlash for a social media post he made that was aimed at the projected No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, USC quarterback Caleb Williams.
After USC’s loss to the UCLA Bruins, Williams "elected to not speak to the media" according to the Los Angeles Times’ USC beat writer, Ryan Kartje. Williams has been scrutinized for his decision to not speak with the media with many questioning his character and potential to lead an NFL franchise as soon as next season if he cannot act cordially following a loss.
In response to Kartje’s report, Rapoport made it clear that he expects better from Williams and used Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow’s reaction to suffering a season-ending wrist injury last week as an example of how a franchise quarterback should act.
"Joe Burrow learned his season was over on Friday, understood his responsibility, and went out and held a news conference. The job of a QB and face of the franchise," Rapoport said on X (also known as Twitter).
People on social media were not happy with Rapoport’s comparison, to say the least.
"[Ian] Rapoport really thought he cooked with this tweet. Comparing a college athlete with a professional athlete in year 4 who just signed the biggest contract in football?" This comment was made by a user on X known as Chris Molina (@ChrisMo2413).
Whether Rapoport has a point or not, it may not be his place to say something.
